Final answer:
Desert ecosystems face conditions such as limited rainfall and high evaporation rates that make the soil infertile and unsuitable for a wide variety of plant and animal life. However, the plants and animals that do live in deserts have adapted in various ways to survive these harsh conditions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Desert soils generally lack biodiversity due to the extreme conditions. Biotic (living) and abiotic (non-living) factors are highly interdependent in these ecosystems. Despite the seemingly harsh conditions, plentiful sunlight exists. However, the lack of rainfall results in limited plant growth. With fewer plants, there's also a limited number of food sources for animals, contributing to limited animal life.
With less life, decomposition rates slowly, and thus, the soil lacks the necessary organic matter to provide nutrients. This results in infertile soils, leading to a further reduction in plant growth. Additionally, high evaporation rates can draw salts up through the soils, making them even more unsuitable for plant life.
Adaptations are seen in desert plants and animals to survive these conditions. Plants may have deep roots, reduced foliage, and water-storing stems, while animals may exhibit nocturnal behavior and burrowing.
Learn more about Desert Ecosystems