What does "sparse" indicate when describing an environment?

The term "sparse" when used to describe an environment conveys a sense of being meager or scant, as well as indicating that elements within that environment are scattered rather than densely situated. For example, a sparse forest may have trees that are distributed far apart, allowing for significant open spaces between them, which highlights the lack of density in that area. This contrasts vividly with descriptions that suggest abundance or richness, which would imply a crowded or densely populated environment. The essence of "sparse" lies in its character of minimalism and insufficiency, making it a fitting choice in this context.