The desert tortoise is an endangered species found in the Great Basin due to habitat loss and human disturbance.

The desert tortoise (Gopherus agassizii) is native to the southwestern United States, including the Great Basin. It has been classified as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act. The main threats to the desert tortoise are habitat destruction, invasive species, diseases, and human activities such as off-road vehicle use and urban development. Conservation efforts are in place to protect their habitats and prevent further decline of their populations. This species' conservation is vital to maintaining the health of the Great Basin's ecosystems.