Question

What are some adaptations of desert plants and animals?

Answer 1

Desert plants and animals have evolved various adaptations to survive in the harsh desert environment. Some common adaptations include:

1. Succulent plants store water in their fleshy leaves or stems to survive long periods of drought.
2. Deep root systems enable plants to access underground water sources.
3. Animals like camels have specialized features such as humps to store fat for energy and long eyelashes to protect their eyes from sand.
4. Nocturnal behavior allows animals to avoid the extreme heat during the day and forage for food at night.
5. Some desert plants have developed reflective surfaces or light-colored leaves to reduce water loss through evaporation.
6. Burrowing animals dig underground burrows to escape the heat and find cooler temperatures.
7. Some desert plants have thorns or spines to deter herbivores and reduce water loss through transpiration.