Question

List out the adaptations of xerophytes.

Answer 1

• The conditions that leads to adaptation of plants in a dry habitat are;

1. To absorb as much water as they can get from the surroundings.
2. To retain water in their organs for a very long time.
3. To reduce the transpiration rate.
4. To reduce consumption of water.

• Adaptations of xerophytes:

1. They have well-developed roots. Roots grow very deep and reach the layers where water is available as in Calotropis.
2. They store water in succulent water-storing parenchymatous tissues, e.g. Opuntia, Aloe vera.
3. They have small-sized leaves with a waxy coating, e.g. Acacia. In some plants, leaves are modified into spines, e.g. Opuntia.
4. Some of the xerophytes complete their life cycle within a very short period when sufficient moisture is available.