Analysis of the Variables Affecting Plant Species Richness in Deserts

Authors

Eli R. Kallison, Humboldt State UniversityFollow
Ellen ThompsonFollow
Maddison KeenFollow
Rusty NewmanFollow

Abstract

There are many hypotheses that attempt to explain patterns of species diversity in different environments. Deserts are a great place to study changes in species richness because they are relatively nutrient bare and exhibit low precipitation. This barebones environment means that slight shifts in climate and geography may lead to clear changes in species richness. We investigate how temperature, precipitation, water and light availability, latitude, elevation and other variables affect plant species richness in 20 deserts.

Recommended Citation

Kallison, Eli R.; Thompson, Ellen; Keen, Maddison; and Newman, Rusty (2020) "Analysis of the Variables Affecting Plant Species Richness in Deserts," IdeaFest: Interdisciplinary Journal of Creative Works and Research from Cal Poly Humboldt: Vol. 4, Article 3.
Available at: https://digitalcommons.humboldt.edu/ideafest/vol4/iss1/3