Deserts

Deserts represent the ultimate challenge to life on Earth. Their lack of
water and extreme temperatures make survival difficult for both wildlife and people,
yet deserts are rich in animal and plant life and culture. Their unique species and
ancient civilizations include fragile treasures needing protection in a rapidly
changing world. Deserts are among our planet's last great wilderness regions, and
they continue to offer scientific puzzles and new discoveries. Deserts: The Living
Drylands is a celebration of the world's least understood ecosystems. In this richly
illustrated book -- featuring 180 color photographs -- wildlife expert Sara Oldfield
leads readers on a journey to some of the most remote places on earth, from the
rolling sand dunes of the Arabian Peninsula's Empty Quarter to the ancient rock
formations of central Australia. Deserts is both a vivid inventory of spectacular
images, facts, and stories and an invaluable source of reference. It brings to life
our planet's unique arid habitats at a time when they are more in need of protection
than ever.The book begins with a survey of deserts around the world, describing
desert exploration over the centuries, the geographical distribution and diversity
of deserts, their ancient and evolving landscapes, water in the desert, desert
ecology and adaptations, people, and resources. Deserts then explores deserts and
drylands in Africa, the Middle East, Asia, Australia, and the Americas, looking at
wildlife, landforms, and traditional cultures. Finally, it focuses on the future of
deserts, discussing conservation, desertification, the protection of desert
ecosystems and landscapes, tourism, and species conservation. The stunning
landscapes and highly adaptive biodiversity of deserts are brought to life vividly
by the evocative text and dazzling photographs.