Successful Desert Animals — Scorpions, Beetles and Lizards

Abstract

Whereas the reactions of animals to heat are largely behavioural, responses to water shortage are primarily physiological. These characters are exhibited in all terrestrial biomes, but are enhanced in the desert. Desert animals, in general, are either cryptically sand-coloured or else black when distasteful or poisonous. This applies to all three taxa under discussion; most beetles are black, most lizards cryptic. Scorpions, paradoxically, may be either black or cryptic. Examples of mimicry and protective resemblance are also cited. It is concluded that scorpions, beetles and lizards are especially successful desert animals, not so much on account of unique adaptations to the harsh and variable environment as to their innate qualities which have adapted them for life in hot, dry and unpredictable habitats.