Ecosystem

The Sahara Desert receives the greatest amount of possible sunlight of any place on Earth. The lack of clouds, storms, and pollution mean that this area receives 4,300 hours of sunlight each year, which means it's sunny 97 percent of the time.

The plants and animals of the Sahara are easily recognized. Mammals such as dromedary camels and goats are herded and used for transport, food, or milk. The hyrax, a small relative of the elephant, is found in the Sahara. Most of the plants in this desert are able to withstand droughts and higher than normal levels of salt(halophytes).  Many of these plants have roots that stick deep down into the ground. In some cases, the roots may reach as far down as 80 feet. The roots travel so deep because they are trying to find water. Palm trees, cacti, and acacia trees are well suited for this desert environment.