The plants grown in the desert are called Xerophytes.
They have morphological and physiological features to adapt to an environment with scarce water, such as in deserts or snowy mountains.
They store large quantities of water, which enable them to survive long, dry seasons. Such plants are known as xeromorphic plants.
Pineapple, Cacti, and bromeliads are examples of xerophytes. Cacti have thick, fleshy stems to store huge amounts of water.
They possess survival features that help them adapt to extreme conditions.
Thick cuticles, closure of stomata, reducing the area of transpiration surface, increased water storage, deep taproots and fibrous roots, waxy stomata, dense leaves, and a higher rate of transpiration are factors affecting the survival of xerophytes.
Different types of Xerophytes are:
- Succulents: They store water for their essential needs in stems and leaves.
- Non-succulent perennials: They utilize rapid root systems to increase the water intake from the soil. It also minimizes water loss through transpiration.
3.Ephemerals: These are the plants that complete their life cycle under favourable conditions.
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