Question

desert ecosystems adaptation

Answer 1

Adaptations in Desert Animals. High temperatures and scarcity of water makes sustenance very difficult in the desert.Adaptations help desert animals to acquire and retain water, and to regulate body temperatures, which helps them to survive in the harsh conditions of the desert.

Answer 2

Answer:

Explanation:

Desert plants are under hot and dry conditions.

(I) These plants conserve water by following methods:-

• They are mostly shrubs.

• Leaves are absent or reduced in size.

• In some plants even the stem contains chlorophyll for photosynthesis.

• Leaves and stem are succulent and water storing.

• Root system is well developed and spread over large area.

The annuals wherever present germinate, bloom and reproduce only during short rainy season, and not in summer and winter. This is an adaption to desert condition.

(ii) The animals are physiologically and behaviourally adapted to desert conditions.

• They are fast runners.

• They are nocturnal in habit to avoid the sun's heat during day time.

• They conserve water by excreting concentrated urine.

• Animals and birds usually have long legs to keep the body away from the hot ground.

• Lizards are mostly insectivorous and can live without drinking water for several days.

• Herbivores animals get sufficient water from the seeds which they eat.

• Camel is known as the ship of the desert as it can travel long distances without drinking water for several days.