Problem 16 In what ways are the subtropical... [FREE SOLUTION]

Chapter 20: Problem 16

In what ways are the subtropical desert and the Arctic tundra similar?

Short Answer

Expert verified

The subtropical desert and the Arctic tundra share some similarities despite their very different climates. Both have extreme environmental conditions: the desert is hot and dry, and the Arctic tundra is extremely cold. These conditions result in low biodiversity in both places, as only specific species can survive in such harsh environments. Yet, the species that do inhabit these regions have developed unique adaptations to survive in such extreme conditions.

Step by step solution

Identify Characteristics

First, brainstorm the characteristics of each ecosystem. The subtropical desert is known for its extremely hot and dry conditions, while the Arctic tundra is known for extremely cold temperatures.

Recognize Shared Conditions

Both ecosystems experience extreme conditions- extremely hot and dry for the desert, and extremely cold for the tundra. These conditions have a strong influence on the wildlife and plant life that can survive in these areas.

Point out low biodiversity

Due to the harsh conditions in both ecosystems, they both have low levels of biodiversity when compared to more moderate ecosystems.

Discuss Adaptations

Species that live in these areas have developed unique adaptations to survive in extreme conditions, these adaptations are quite different, but the need of them is something both ecosystems share.

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Key Concepts

These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.

Subtropical Desert

Subtropical deserts are fascinating ecosystems characterized by extreme heat and dryness. These deserts receive very little rainfall, often less than 25 centimeters (about 10 inches) annually. This lack of moisture creates harsh conditions for plants and animals.

Despite these challenges, several species have managed to adapt and thrive. Vegetation such as cacti and succulents are common, storing water in their thick stems and leaves. Animals in subtropical deserts, like the fennec fox and camel, have adapted behaviors and physical traits to deal with heat and scarcity of water.

Temperatures can soar above 40掳C (104掳F) during the day.
Plants often have waxy coatings to reduce water loss.
Some animals are nocturnal to avoid daytime heat.

Arctic Tundra

The Arctic tundra is an ecosystem located near the North Pole, characterized by its extreme cold and minimal vegetation establishment. Unlike the subtropical desert, it experiences long, harsh winters and short, cool summers.

Covering around 20% of Earth鈥檚 land surface, the tundra mainly comprises permafrost, a layer of permanently frozen soil. Despite these conditions, unique plant species such as mosses, lichens, and dwarf shrubs manage to survive.

Winters are dark and can drop to temperatures as low as -30掳C (-22掳F).
Soil is frozen, making plant root systems shallow.
Animals often migrate or hibernate to survive.

Extreme Conditions

Both subtropical deserts and Arctic tundras are defined by their extreme conditions, which significantly influence the ecosystems' survival strategies.

In subtropical deserts, extreme heat and arid conditions demand that organisms utilize every drop of water efficiently, while in the Arctic tundra, the extreme cold limits plant growth and animal activity.

In both ecosystems, the temperature severely restricts biodiversity.
Water is a pivotal factor; it's scarce in deserts and frozen in the tundra.
Survival requires specific adaptations unique to each environment.

Biodiversity

Biodiversity in both subtropical deserts and Arctic tundras is relatively low compared to more temperate regions. This is largely due to the climactic hardships imposed by their respective extreme environments.

In subtropical deserts, the occasional downpour can cause brief bursts of biological activity. Meanwhile, the Arctic tundra fosters few animal and plant species, with many relying on the region's limited resources.

Low species diversity leads to unique and specialized roles for each organism.
Food webs are simple, with few species interacting.
Environmental changes can heavily impact these ecosystems.

Species Adaptations

To survive in the challenging conditions of subtropical deserts and Arctic tundras, species have evolved remarkable adaptations.

In deserts, many plants have developed thick skins or spines to conserve water and reduce predation. Animals, such as snakes, have adapted to blend into their sandy environments for protection. In the Arctic tundra, animals like the Arctic fox have thick fur for insulation, and plants grow close to the ground to avoid cold winds.

Desert plants often have deep roots to access underground water.
Tundra animals may change color seasonally for camouflage.
Behavioral adaptations, like migration, are crucial for many species.

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In what ways are the subtropical desert and the Arctic tundra similar?

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Identify Characteristics

Recognize Shared Conditions

Point out low biodiversity

Discuss Adaptations

Key Concepts

Subtropical Desert

Arctic Tundra

Extreme Conditions

Biodiversity

Species Adaptations

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