🏜️ Biome · Desert
Desert
Temperature extremes and masters of survival.
Biome overview
Deserts are characterized by scarce rainfall, strong thermal contrasts between day and night and open landscapes with little vegetation.
Ecological strengths
Few external parasites, abundant solar radiation and very dry air that reduces fungal proliferation.
Vulnerabilities and threats
Extreme temperatures and water scarcity force very fine strategies for energy and water conservation. Direct sun exposure can be lethal.
Special features
Many species are nocturnal or crepuscular. Others use deep burrows, large ears or light colors to dissipate heat.
Biome climate profile
General parameters that many species of the Desert habitat usually share.
Temperature range
25–38 °C (día), 18–25 °C (noche)
Remember to adapt these values to the specific needs of each species.
Relative humidity
20–40 %
Ventilation and substrate type greatly influence the actual humidity of the microhabitat.
Typical regions
Sahara, Arabian deserts, arid zones of Australia and North America.
General installation guidelines
Terrariums with good ventilation, localized heat sources and cool, deep shelters.
Day / night cycle
Example of temperature ranges throughout the day for the Desert biome.
Ecological curiosities
Interesting little facts about how the Desert biome works.
- Some desert fox species dissipate heat thanks to their giant ears.
- Desert reptiles can go long periods without drinking if their diet is adequate.
Simulating this habitat in captivity
General guidance for recreating the Desert biome in terrariums, aquariums or similar facilities.
Overview of the simulated habitat
In captivity, desert biomes are recreated with very well-ventilated terrariums, sandy substrates or compactable mixes and powerful heat sources.
Strengths in captivity
Parameters are very stable once adjusted and terrarium cleaning is simple as it is a dry environment.
Common challenges and risks
The most common mistake is excess heat or lack of thermal gradient. There is also a risk of impaction if inappropriate loose substrates are used.
Quick tips for setting up the environment
- Create a good thermal gradient: a hot end with a heat source and another much cooler.
- Offer shelters in both the cold and temperate zones so the animal can choose.
- Avoid very fine sands with small species; consider compactable mixes or rocky soils.
Animals from this habitat
Species from our catalog associated with the Desert biome.
Cockatiel
Small, very social Australian psittacid, common in semi-arid areas and open grasslands.
View profile →Dung Beetle
Beetle known for forming and rolling dung balls that it buries for feeding and breeding.
View profile →Bearded Dragon
Terrestrial lizard from central Australia, adaptable and generally calm-tempered.
View profile →