Desert Life
What is precipitation?
the amount of rain or snow that falls
What types of land are found in the desert?
Sandy dunes and rocky landscapes
What is one way animals adapt to the desert?
They change their diet to survive.
Where does irrigation water come from?
The Colorado River.
What do biologists study in the desert?
Plants and animals and how they survive
Why are large roots helpful for desert plants?
The roots can hold a lot of water to help plants survive with less precipitation
What adaptations do desert plants have?
They have large root systems to gather water.
What do desert animals eat to survive?
They may eat plants or other animals that are available.
What are precious metals?
Valuable minerals like gold and silver found in the desert
What can archaeologists learn from the desert?
About ancient history through fossils and artifacts
How do animals survive in the desert?
They store water in their bodies
How do plants store water in the desert?
They have thick stems or leaves to retain moisture
How do animals store water?
They store water in their bodies or get it from their food
What is borax?
A mineral used in cleaning products that can be found in deserts.
What are fossils?
Remains of ancient plants and animals preserved in rocks
Which two natural resources can be found in the desert?
Borax and precious metals.
What is the Joshua tree?
A type of desert plant that can grow in extremely dry conditions
What challenges do desert animals face?
Lack of water and extreme temperatures
What are some challenges of mining in the desert?
Limited water supply and harsh conditions
How do scientists study the desert environment?
By observing changes and their causes
Why do some businesses succeed in the desert?
They provide the services that travelers need as they travel through the desert
Describe how a desert plant can live for over a hundred years.
They have adaptations that allow them to survive with little water.
Name two desert animals and their adaptations
A cactus wren, which has behaviors to conserve water, and a camel, which can go long periods without water.
How can businesses provide services in the desert?
By storing water and providing necessary supplies for travelers.
Why is studying deserts important for understanding ancient life?
Deserts can provide clues about how ancient species adapted to extreme conditions.