Ecophysiology of atmospheric moisture in the Namib Desert

摘要: Although the Namib Desert is classified as hyperarid, with rainfall extremely rare, there are several other sources of atmospheric moisture, namely, humidity, dew and fog, which make it possible for organisms to live there. Methods use these include locating moist micro-climates, drinking from wet surfaces, consuming food, collecting water on body, absorbing vapour. In describing mechanisms published sources, we highlight work Professor Gideon Louw, whom dedicate this paper. Louw's pioneering relations economy, includes osmoregulation in desert plants animals such grass, beetles, springbok, established a foundation that inspired numerous studies by colleagues students. Ecophysiology provides many more lessons have potential be mimicked applied occult collection arid regions.