Which biome is characterized by low rainfall and high temperatures?

Prepare for your ASU BIO320 Fundamentals of Ecology Exam 3. Study efficiently with flashcards, multiple choice questions, hints, and explanations on each topic. Ace your exam with confidence!

The biome characterized by low rainfall and high temperatures is the desert. Deserts are defined by their extreme aridity, receiving less than 10 inches (25 cm) of rainfall per year, and they experience some of the highest temperatures on Earth, particularly in the daytime during summer months. These conditions lead to a unique set of ecological adaptations among the flora and fauna that inhabit these regions, as many species have evolved strategies for water conservation and heat tolerance.

In contrast, tundras are cold, treeless regions that typically have short growing seasons and low temperatures, making them distinctly different from deserts. Grasslands, while they may experience variable rainfall, generally have more precipitation than deserts and are characterized by their vast grass-covered areas, supporting different forms of life and ecosystems. Forests, on the other hand, receive ample rainfall and are dominated by trees, which also sets them apart from the characteristics of desert biomes. Thus, the defining features of the desert—low rainfall and high temperatures—clearly align with the correct answer.

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