Another growthform adapted to desert conditions is the ephemeral . The seeds are encased in a waterproof coating that prevents desiccation for years if necessary. These plants essentially avoid drought by occurring as seeds most of the time. Perennial forbs with underground bulbs store nutrients and water in undergound tissues and also remain dormant most of the year. They can sprout rapidly after sufficient rains and replenish their undergound stores.
Calcification is the dominant soil-forming process, if indeed soil forming even occurs.
There is poor development of horizons, with accumulation of calcium carbonate at or near the surface. Sparse vegetative cover and tiny leaves results in little humus and soils typically have a light gray color. Aridosols are the dominant soil order. Like the plants, the animals of the desert have evolved an array of strategies for dealing with aridity. Behavioral adaptations such as being nocturnal or crepuscular, being fossorial, and staying the shade during the heat of day are common.