In terms of ecosystem productivity, which of the following is generally true for deserts?

Deserts are characterized by their arid conditions, which significantly limit the availability of moisture, a crucial factor for plant growth. As a result, the net primary productivity in deserts tends to be low. This is primarily due to the sparse vegetation and limited number of plant species that can survive in such harsh environments. The plants that do grow in deserts often have adaptations to minimize water loss, further reducing their overall biomass production.

While there may be some seasonal fluctuations in productivity, overall, the capacity for biomass production in deserts remains consistently low compared to other ecosystems like forests or grasslands, where moisture levels are more conducive to higher plant productivity. Thus, the statement regarding deserts exhibiting low net primary productivity accurately reflects the ecological realities of these environments.