Drought Tortoise

The Desert Tortoise (Gopherus agassizii) currently lives in the Mojave Desert by burrowing to escape extreme heat. Rising temperatures, decreasing rainfall, and increased solar radiation due to climate change would make survival more difficult. Over millions of years, I believe it would evolve into the Drought Tortoise(Testudo aquafovea), which would thrive in these harsh conditions. A specialized water-storage organ would allow it to survive for months without drinking. Its reflective shell would help deflect solar radiation, preventing overheating. The shell would also feature capillary grooves, channeling rare rain into its storage organ, similar to the Texas Horned Lizard. To burrow more efficiently, its body would become thinner and more compact, fitting better into underground shelters. Its shovel-like feet would enhance digging, helping it escape extreme heat. These adaptations would ensure the tortoise’s survival in the desert.