8. Conclusions
Desert environments are arguably among the most adverse places on terrestrial earth for life to exist. Nevertheless, desert biomes are expansive, composed of primeval species that have evolved elaborate adaptations. Desert crusts have survived via evolved mechanisms protecting them from freeze-thaw, extreme temperature fluctuations, desiccation, and ultra-violet radiation. While these cyanobacteria positively influence their environment as pioneer species, they also produce toxins that could be hazardous to human and animal health.