Ecophysiology of Desert Arthropods and Reptiles
Ecophysiology of Desert Arthropods and Reptiles

Author: John L. Cloudsley-Thompson

Publisher: Springer Science & Business Media

Published: 2012-12-06

Total Pages: 212

ISBN-13: 364275337X

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Ecophysiology of Desert Arthropods and Reptiles starts with a new classification of the world's deserts, based upon the type of precipitation and the effect on their faunas of arthropods and reptiles. This is followed by an account of microclimates and the avoidance of environmental extremes. Whereas thermoregulation is primarily behavioural, responses to water shortage are largely physiological. Seasonal activity and phenology are described, adaptations for burrowing, the avoidance of enemies, and defence, are also outlined. A comparative account of interspecific relationships, feeding specializations, and species diversity in the two taxa is described. The purpose of the book is to provide a new and up-to-date analysis that will stimulate further research along these lines.

Arid Land Ecosystems: Volume 2, Structure, Functioning and Management
Arid Land Ecosystems: Volume 2, Structure, Functioning and Management

Author: D. W. Goodall

Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Published: 2009-03-19

Total Pages: 628

ISBN-13: 9780521105569

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This volume was first published in 1981. The history of man's use of arid lands is a sad record of deterioration of the natural resource base and of low and declining living standards for the 300 million people who live in them. One prerequisite to meeting the challenge of reversing the deterioration and of raising living standards is a sound knowledge of the natural ecosystems.