Hot deserts

• What is the average annual rainfall in hot deserts?

  250 millimeters per year
• Why do hot deserts experience extreme temperature changes?

  Due to very little rainfall and lack of vegetation
• What is the temperature range in hot deserts during the day and night?

  From 45 degrees to 0 degrees Celsius
• How does low rainfall affect soil fertility in hot deserts?

  It limits soil fertility and dries it out
• What type of plant growth is typical in hot deserts?

  Sparse, low, and short plant growth
• What adaptations do mammals in hot deserts typically have?

  They tend to be small and nocturnal
• Where do people typically grow crops in hot deserts?

  Near natural water sources in desert fringes
• What lifestyle do indigenous people in hot deserts often lead?

  They are often nomadic, seeking food and water
• What are the main adaptations of plants in hot deserts?

  • Small leaves to reduce water loss
  • Tap roots reaching 7-10 meters deep
  • Spines instead of leaves for water efficiency
  • Waxy skin on leaves to minimize transpiration
  • Water storage in stems, leaves, or roots
• What is the purpose of tap roots in desert plants?

  To access deep water supplies
• Why do some desert plants have spines instead of leaves?

  Spines lose less water than leaves
• How does waxy skin on leaves help desert plants?

  It reduces water loss by transpiration
• What do succulents do to survive in hot deserts?

  Store water in their stems or leaves
• What are the key adaptations of camels in hot deserts?

  • Long eyelashes and hairy ears to keep out sand
  • Thick eyebrows to shade eyes from sun
  • Wide feet to prevent sinking in sand
  • Ability to go without food or water for weeks
  • Body temperature can change to conserve water
• How long can camels go without food or water?

  Over a week without water, months without food
• Why do camels have thick fur?

  To keep them warm at night
• How do the adaptations of camels help them survive in the desert environment?

  They minimize water loss and protect from sand