Question

Enumerate the anatomical adaptations of xerophytes.

Answer 1

1. Presence of multilayered epidermis with heavy cuticle to prevent water loss due to transpiration.
2. The hypodermis is well developed with sclerenchymatous tissues.
3. Sunken-shaped stomata are present only in the lower epidermis with hairs in the sunken pits.
4. Scotoactive type of stomata found in succulent plants.
5. Vascular bundles are well developed with several layered bundle sheaths.
6. The mesophyll is well-differentiated into palisade and spongy parenchyma.
7. In succulents, the stem possesses a water storage region.