Deserts and xeric shrublands is a biome characterized by, relating to, or requiring only a small amount of moisture. Definition and Occurrence Deserts and xeric shrublands receive an annual average rainfall of ten inches or less, and have an arid or hyperarid climate, characterized by a strong moisture deficit, where annual potential loss of moisture from evapotranspiration well exceeds the moisture received as rainfall. Deserts and xeric shrublands occur in tropical, subtropical, and temperate… (More on Xeric)