A biological community in which most of the indigenous plants and animals are adapted to chronic aridity and periodic extreme droughts is called what?

• A. Savanna
• B. Desert
• C. Tundra
• D. Steppe

Answer: (B)

This question focuses on desert biomes and how life is adapted to long, dry spells. Deserts are defined by very low rainfall and high evaporation, creating conditions of chronic aridity with periodic extreme droughts. Plants store water, have reduced leaf area, waxy cuticles, and deep or widespread root systems to capture whatever moisture is available. Animals often drink very little water, conserve it through concentrated urine, or avoid the heat by being nocturnal or burrowing. These specialized strategies are what allow organisms to survive in such dry environments.

In contrast, savannas are grassy ecosystems with seasonal rainfall and scattered trees, tundra is cold with a short growing season and often permafrost, and steppes are semi-arid grasslands with more rainfall than deserts. The description given fits the desert best.