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Namib Desert of Africa

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The Namib Desert

Range

The Namib Desert rises from the southwestern coast of Africa.

Habitat Description

The Namib Desert is made up of giant white dunes. The rainfall every year is less than one inch. In many years, it doesn't rain at all. Instead, the little water on the Namib comes from the thick fogs that roll in off the ocean at night.

Animals Found in This Habitat

Insects and reptiles are the most common animals surviving on windblown seeds, plant particles, and each other. When fog rolls in, the head-stander beetle tips up on its head and collects the watery mist that rolls down its body into its mouth. Large mammals such as giraffes, elephants, lions, and jackals may roam into the riverbed oasis when there is a bit of water.

Plants Found in This Habitat

There is just enough mositure to keep some plants alive, like the strange welwitschia, whose leathery leaves are well-adapted to desert life.

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School subscriptions can access more than 175 downloadable unit bundles in our store for free (a value of $1,500).

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The Namib Desert

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