Why is plant life so sparse in the Trans-Altai Gobi?

Plant life in the Trans-Altai Gobi is extremely sparse primarily due to the region's severe aridity and harsh physical environment. The area is parched, receiving less than 4 inches (100 mm) of annual precipitation.1

The landscape itself contributes to the difficulty of sustaining vegetation; it is elevated, rugged, and characterized by barren mountains, dry ravines, and clayey tracts known as takyr. Although groundwater is present, the region lacks accessible surface water, with virtually no natural wells or springs to support plant growth. These factors combine to create an environment where vegetation is not only sparse but also largely unsuitable for livestock.1