GCSE Geography (CIE)

Topic Summaries

Hot desert ecosystems

Adaptations of plants and animals in hot deserts

  • Plants: 
    • Xerophytes: adapted to dry conditions (e.g. cacti with spines to reduce water loss, deep tap roots to access underground water). 
    • Succulents: store water in stems or leaves.
    • Waxy coatings reduce water loss.
  • Animals: 
    • Nocturnal behaviour to avoid heat. 
    • Camels store fat in humps and can go without water for extended periods. 
    • Kangaroo rats get moisture from seeds and live in burrows to escape heat.

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