The Physiological Adaptations of Desert Rodents

Abstract

The word desert denotes areas characterised by high temperatures and low irregular precipitation, resulting in extensive drought and scarcity of vegetation. Animals living in such an environment are faced with two major physiological problems: obtaining sufficient water for the needs of the body, and keeping the body temperature at a level compatible with life. It is evident that the high temperature of the environment often imposes the problems of additional water being required for use in heat regulation.