Crossword Genius

Deficiencies in deserts (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

defects

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

This might be a double definition.

'deficiencies' is the first definition.
The answer and definition can be both human attributes as well as being plural nouns.
Perhaps they are linked in a way I don't understand?

'deserts' is the second definition.
('defect' can be a synonym of 'desert')

'in' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for defects that I've seen before include "Faults" , "Flaws" , "defaults" , "Abandons cause" , "Shortcomings; changes sides" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.
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