There are two main Dry Climates. Arid climates and Semi-Arid climate. An Arid Climate is characterized by a lack of available water, to the extent of where it prevents the growth and development of plant and animal life. Environments that are arid climates tend to lack vegetation and are called desertic. Most arid climates surround the equator including most of Africa and parts of South america, Central America and Australia. A Semi-Arid Climate are regions that receive precipitation below normal, but not extremely. A semi-arid climate is between a desert climate and humid climates. Semi-arid climates tend to support short or scrubby vegetation, which is usually grasses and shrubs.