This species inhabits desert regions with sandy soils and mud flats, even appearing in sand dunes within some parts of its range. It is a solitary, nocturnal rodent that spends the daytime in cool underground burrows, sealing the entrance with its tail to conserve water. At night, it forages for food, mainly grasses and seeds, displaying exceptional water extraction from its diet. By producing minimal waste and concentrated urine, it minimizes water loss. The species' foot structure aids in traversing sand and also allows it to jump using its tail for balance. Predators include the Red Fox and Sand Fox. Notably, this gerbil has a significant middle ear that detects low-frequency sounds, like owl wingbeats. After a three-week gestation, females give birth to as many as eight offspring per litter.

Sand dune ecosystem: The crescent-shaped sand dunes are considered one of the prominent features of the terrestrial environment of the State of Qatar.In southern Qatar, huge sand dunes rise from the desert plain. These dunes are shaped by the wind and are constantly shifting. In certain conditions, the movement of sand grains creates a low humming sound. The dunes near Mesai’eed are one of the few places on Earth where this phenomenon of ‘singing’ sand dunes can be heard. The plants and animals that survive in the intense heat and unstable sands of the dunes are supremely well adapted to the challenging conditions.

Wittmer, W., Büttiker, W., & Krupp, F. (1979). Fauna of Arabia (Vol. 6, Issue 3 of Fauna publication). Pro Entomologia c/o Natural History Museum