Origin and Evolution of Deserts - Softcover

Wells, Stephen G. & Haragan, Donald R. - Editors

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0826306063 ISBN 13: 9780826306067

Publisher: University of New Mexico Press, 1983

Synopsis

The objective of the Committee on Desert and Arid Zones Research is to encourage the study of phenomena relating to and affected by human occupation of arid and semiarid regions, primarily within the areas represented by the Southwestern and Rocky Mountain division of the A.A.A.S. This goal involves educational and research activities, both fundamental and applied, that may further understanding and efficient use of our arid lands. In this volume contains papers presented at two recent symposium dealing with the origin and evolution of deserts. The historical perspectives offered in these essays should provide some important insights into desert processes. By utilizing the historical perspectives, readers have an opportunity to consider the future of North American and North African arid regions and to suggest topics for research that can provide alternatives to potentially disastrous trends. The reader of this volume should look for and be struck by the impact of seemingly rather slight shifts of climate on the structures of arid and semiarid systems. Because so many organisms live so close to their tolerance limits and ability to exploit the minimal resources provided by desert environments, even slight changes in climate or resources can push many such species over the brink to local extinction.

Edition details

• Publisher: University of New Mexico Press
• Publication date: 1983
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0826306063
• ISBN 13: 9780826306067
• Binding: Paperback
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 228