Describe the characteristics of a desert biome.

A desert biome is characterised by its arid conditions, extreme temperatures, sparse vegetation, and unique animal adaptations.

A desert biome is primarily defined by its lack of precipitation. It receives less than 25 centimetres of rainfall annually, making it the driest of all biomes. This lack of water creates a harsh, inhospitable environment where only the hardiest of plants and animals can survive. The soil in deserts is usually sandy or rocky and lacks nutrients, which further limits plant growth.

Temperature extremes are another defining characteristic of desert biomes. During the day, temperatures can soar to over 40 degrees Celsius due to the unobstructed exposure to the sun's rays. However, at night, temperatures can plummet to below freezing as there is no cloud cover to trap the heat. This diurnal temperature variation is one of the most challenging aspects of living in a desert biome.

Despite the harsh conditions, a variety of plants and animals have adapted to survive in desert biomes. Plants such as cacti have evolved to store water in their stems and have spines instead of leaves to reduce water loss. Many desert animals are nocturnal, active during the cooler night hours to avoid the intense daytime heat. Some, like the fennec fox, have large ears to dissipate heat, while reptiles like snakes and lizards are cold-blooded, allowing their body temperature to fluctuate with the environment.

Desert biomes also exhibit a unique beauty, with vast sand dunes, rocky landscapes, and brilliant night skies. They are found on every continent and vary greatly depending on their geographic location. For example, the Sahara Desert in Africa is known for its vast sand dunes, while the Atacama Desert in South America is a rocky landscape that is considered the driest place on Earth.

In conclusion, desert biomes are characterised by their extreme conditions, including low rainfall, high temperatures, and unique adaptations of plants and animals. Despite these harsh conditions, they are home to a diverse range of life and exhibit a unique, stark beauty.