Abstract
Physical and biotic elements of a sand dune ecosystem in the Wadi El Raiyan area of the Egyptian Western Desert are identified and described. The study area is the site of extensive eolian sand deposition and active dune formation. It has a typical hyperarid warm Saharan climate. A superfacial groundwater table is the main source of water. Vegetation is limited to low-lying interdune areas and the bases of larger dunes, and is represented by 13 species of perennial plants. Vegetation density, distribution and composition vary with local topographic and edaphic variations. Animal life is concentrated in the vegetated areas and is represented by a large number of invertebrates, mostly insects and arachnids. Eleven reptiles, 13 resident birds and nine mammals, are also present, many with adaptations for either sandy or other desert habitats. The special characteristics of this ecosystem and its elements are discussed.
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