After a brief survey of biotopic and vegetational features and an
account of the main groups of desert animals, the most unusual patterns
of the behaviour of the xerophilous fauna are examined. The importance
of the thermohygric regulation and self-protective and locomotor
mechanisms to the survival of arid-adapted animals is emphasized and
various adaptations in the alimentary, reproductive and social spheres
are analyzed.
The clear and fluent treatment will awaken the interest of the reading
public, from the amateur naturalists to research scientists.