Deserts are characterized by:

* Very low precipitation: Typically less than 10 inches (25 cm) of rainfall per year.

* Extreme temperatures: Hot days and cold nights with large temperature fluctuations.

* Sparse vegetation: Only plants adapted to dry conditions can survive.

* Limited biodiversity: Fewer species of plants and animals can survive in these harsh conditions.

While there are different types of deserts (hot, cold, coastal), they all share the common trait of extreme aridity.