An area of land that has little rainfall is called a desert. Deserts can be classified as hot or cold, based on their temperature patterns. They receive less than 10 inches (25 cm) of precipitation annually, making them inhospitable for many life forms. Despite harsh conditions, deserts host a variety of specialized plants and animals adapted to survive with minimal water. Some well-known deserts include the Sahara in Africa, the Sonoran in North America, and the Gobi in Asia. The unique ecosystems of deserts contribute to biodiversity and offer various adaptations that help organisms endure extreme temperatures and limited resources.