What type of ecosystem primarily covers much of Australia?

Australia is predominantly characterized by its vast desert ecosystems, with the most extensive areas being arid and semi-arid regions. The interior of Australia, also known as the Outback, is largely desert, encompassing notable deserts such as the Great Sandy Desert and the Gibson Desert. These areas have extreme temperatures, low rainfall, and unique flora and fauna adapted to survive in such harsh conditions.

In terms of vegetation, the desert ecosystems are dominated by xerophytic plants, which are specially adapted to conserve water. The sparse and hardy vegetation supports a diverse array of wildlife that has evolved to thrive in this challenging environment. This particular type of ecosystem plays a significant role in Australia's environmental identity, influencing everything from climate to biodiversity.

While other ecosystems do exist in Australia, such as grasslands or rainforests in specific coastal regions, they cover a much smaller portion of the continent compared with the expansive desert areas. Tundra, being a cold environment typically found in polar regions, has no presence in Australia. Thus, the desert ecosystem is the most accurate representation of the vast landscapes found across the country.