Ecophysiology of Desert Arthropods and Reptiles [Paperback]

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.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.1 Introduction.- 2 The Deserts of the World and Their Faunas.- 2.1 Classification of Deserts.- 2.2 Precipitation and Moisture.- 2.3 Exposure.- 2.4 Parallel Evolution, Convergence and Ecological Equivalents.- 2.4.1 Reptilian Examples of Convergence.- 2.4.2 Parallel Evolution Among Lizard Assemblages.- 2.4.3 Arthropodan Examples of Convergence.- 2.5 Energy Flow.- 2.6 Trophic Level PatternslC5