Which statement best describes the desert biome? a. It is found wherever temperatures are high; b. It contains a larger amount of biomass per unit area than any other biome; c. Its dominant vegetation is adapted to conserve water; d. Most are located at the equator; e. It is not suitable for human habitation

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the key characteristics of a desert biome, which include low precipitation, extreme temperature variations between day and night, and adaptations to conserve water.
2. Evaluate each statement against these characteristics: Statement (a) focuses only on high temperatures, but deserts can also be cold; (b) is incorrect as deserts have lower biomass due to harsh conditions; (c) aligns with the adaptation strategies of desert plants; (d) is incorrect as most deserts are not located at the equator but rather at higher latitudes; (e) is misleading as humans do inhabit desert regions, though it can be challenging.
3. Recognize that the dominant vegetation in deserts includes cacti and other succulents which have adaptations like thick, waxy skins and the ability to store water, crucial for survival in water-scarce environments.
4. Conclude that the statement which correctly captures the essence of desert biome adaptations and characteristics is the one that mentions the vegetation's adaptation to conserve water.
5. Select the statement that best matches the adaptations and characteristics of the desert biome.

Key Concepts

Desert Biome Characteristics

The desert biome is characterized by low precipitation, extreme temperature variations, and sparse vegetation. These conditions lead to unique adaptations in flora and fauna, allowing them to survive in arid environments. Deserts can be hot or cold, but they all share the common trait of limited water availability.

Water Conservation Adaptations

Plants in desert biomes have evolved various adaptations to conserve water, such as thick, waxy cuticles, deep root systems, and specialized leaves that minimize water loss. Examples include cacti and succulents, which store water in their tissues, enabling them to thrive in harsh conditions where water is scarce.

Biomass and Productivity

Biomass refers to the total mass of living matter in a given area, and deserts typically have lower biomass compared to other biomes like forests or grasslands. This is due to the limited availability of water and nutrients, which restricts plant growth and, consequently, the animals that depend on them for food.