Xeric basin ecosystems
Little permanent surface water and a relative abundance of springs characterize ecoregions in this major habitat type. Extraordinary freshwater biodiversity in desert regions occurs in the Chihuahuan, Anatolian, and Central Australian freshwater ecoregions1).
The Cuatro Ciénegas spring and pool complex in the Chihuahuan Desert is unique in its high richness, extreme endemism, and unusual evolutionary adaptations2). As well, rivers in the Anatolian region of Turkey support many endemic species adapted to these waters3).
1) Hocutt & Wiley 1986, Balik 1995, Abell et al. 2000
2) Contreras-Balderas 1978ab, Hocutt & Wiley 1986
3) Balik 1995
In this habitat are the following ecoregions:
Australasia
(193) Central Australian Freshwater
Nearctic
(194) Chihuahuan Freshwater
Palearctic
(195) Anatolian Freshwater
1) Hocutt & Wiley 1986, Balik 1995, Abell et al. 2000
2) Contreras-Balderas 1978ab, Hocutt & Wiley 1986
3) Balik 1995
