Different temperature and precipitation patterns create distinct biotic communities in each of them. Deserts host a wide range of rare and endemic plants and animals, most of which have evolved ways to help them keep cool and use less water.
From the active dune system of New Mexico’s Mescalero Sands to the dense stands of old Joshua Trees at Arizona’s Grapevine Mesa, National Natural Landmarks illustrate our nation’s diversity of desert ecology and geology. Some of these include:
Grapevine Mesa Joshua Tree, AZ
Valley of Fire, NV
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, CA
Last updated: January 28, 2022