Monday, August 17, 2009

Adaptations to Desert Environments





Because the environmental conditions in arid environments are particualarly severe, deserts offer an interesting location to study adaptations to local environmental conditions. Hopefully, the readings will give you a broad exposure to how natural selection can mold physiology, morpology, reproduction, and behavior in arid environments.

Powerpoint Presentation

Click here to see a powerpoint presentation "Introduction to Desert Flora and Fauna"
http://www.slideshare.net/secret/pw2UrKumkR7KRT

Readings

Adaptations of desert birds and mammals http://www.eoearth.org/article/Adaptations_of_desert_birds_and_mammals

Adaptations of desert reptiles and apmphibians
http://www.eoearth.org/article/Adaptations_of_desert_amphibians_and_reptiles

Adaptations of desert plants
http://www.eoearth.org/article/Adaptations_of_desert_plants

Expected Learning Outcomes

At the end of this course a fully engaged student should be able to

- identify and discuss the unique challenges associated with living in arid environments

- explain adaptations of animals and plants for water uptake and water conservation

- explain adaptations of animals and plants for dealing with high temperatures

No comments:

Post a Comment