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The is a major ecosystem and vegetation type composed of woody shrubs that form a dense thicket about 3 to 13 ft high. The species that live in the are adapted to very dry summers and mild rainy winters. The plants grow in extensive, but discontinuous stands o ....

Middle of Essay
.... and sumac. The plants have evolved to withstand long, dry summers and strong autumn Santa Ana winds that create frequent fires. The leaves of the plants are mostly thickor needle like so it can reduce water loss through evaporation. The chamise, for example, has small, needle-like leaves that store up and save the moisture in the plant. The is the home of many species of reptiles, birds, and mammals. There are animals such as the alligator lizard, western rattlesnake, quail, roadrunner, scrub jay, brush rabbit, coyote, and mule deer. Some species are restricted to habitats only, but others inhabit adjacent vegetation types as well. The enviro ....