desiccation

Desiccation is the process of extreme drying, or the loss of water from a substance or organism. In physiology, dehydration refers to the loss of water from the body, often accompanied by a loss of salt. This can occur due to restricted water intake or excessive water loss through perspiration, vomiting, or diarrhea.123

Organisms have developed various mechanisms to cope with water loss. Terrestrial life requires maintaining water content within narrow limits, with water loss occurring through evaporation or transpiration. Desert animals often have skin that is less permeable to water, and some, like the tardigrade, can enter a desiccated, deathlike state called cryptobiosis to survive extreme dryness. Conversely, dehydration in humans leads to symptoms like thirst, dry skin, and potentially fever and shock if severe. Treatment involves replacing lost water and electrolytes.453