Without knowing the specific species of tree that was discovered, it is difficult to provide a detailed answer. However, I can provide some general information about the Arizona desert environment and how it has changed over time.
The Arizona desert is a hot and arid region, characterized by low annual rainfall, high temperatures, and sparse vegetation. It is home to a variety of plant and animal species that are specially adapted to survive in these harsh conditions. The desert is also known for its geological formations, including canyons, mesas, and sand dunes.
Over the course of geological time, the climate and environment of the Arizona desert have changed significantly. For example, during the Pleistocene epoch (2.6 million to 11,700 years ago), the region was much cooler and wetter than it is today. This allowed for the growth of vegetation that is not present in the modern desert, including grasslands, savannas, and even forests in some areas.
It is possible that the fossilized tree specimen discovered in the Arizona desert lived during a period when the climate and environment were different from what they are today. By studying the tree's morphology and anatomy, scientists may be able to infer information about the environmental conditions that existed when the tree was alive. For example, the presence of growth rings or other indicators of growth rate can provide clues about the amount of rainfall and temperature fluctuations that the tree experienced during its lifetime. By comparing this information to current climate data, scientists can gain insights into how the environment of the region has changed over time.
Hope this helps, have a good day.