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How to Make a Desert Biome

The desert biome is distinguished largely by its low annual levels of rainfall, fewer than 20 inches per year, and covers about a fifth of the surface of the planet. Flora and fauna in the desert are often specialized to their habitats, designed to survive with little precipitation. You can replicate the circumstances of this biome, one of the distinct six into which the planet can be divided, in your own home or classroom.

Things You'll Need

Large aquarium
Gravel
Planting soil
Sand
Peat moss
Large container
Cacti and succulents
Medium-sized rocks
Desk lamp with bendable neck (optional)
Thermometer

Instructions

- 1
  Spread a 1-inch layer of gravel on the bottom of the aquarium.
- 2
  Mix 1 part planting soil, 1 part peat moss and 3 parts sand in a large container. Add mixture to the aquarium by hand, spreading on top of the gravel and adding more as needed to cover. Slope upward toward the back of the tank as you apply such that the maximum thickness is approximately 2 ½ inches.
- 3
  Add several small desert plants to the soil mixture. Include several small cacti and a few succulents. Try a Panda Plant, Jade Plant or Hens and Chicks.
- 4
  Place several medium-sized rocks in and on top of the soil.
- 5
  Position the lamp next to your aquarium. Face the light toward the inside to create a hot environment or place in direct sunlight. Place the thermometer inside the aquarium tank to monitor the internal heat, making sure it reaches highs anywhere from 75 degrees to 115 degrees Fahrenheit.
- 6
  Turn off the lamp at night. Don't worry if your thermometer reveals temperatures as low as 0 degrees Fahrenheit; this is normal for desert nights.
- 7
  Occasionally sprinkle the plants in your tank with water.

Nature