Question

If cacti don't transpire, how do they transport or circulate minerals and nutrients?

Answer 1

Cacti:

1. Through the large vascular system and tissues of the plant, water and nutrients are absorbed by the roots and disseminated throughout the entire plant.
2. The vascular tissue xylem of the plant carries water and minerals, whereas the phloem carries nutrients like glucose.
3. Chlorophyll may be found in the cactus plant's green stem.
4. As a result, rather than the leaves, the stem serves as the primary site of photosynthesis in cactus plants.
5. Cacti are xerophytes, desert-dwelling plants that also transpire through modified leaves called spines.
6. Cacti have spines that aid in minimizing water loss during transpiration.
7. Cacti use CAM photosynthesis, a method that only succulents can use.
8. Since stomata are only open at night, when the plant is relatively cold, less moisture is lost by transpiration in CAM photosynthesis.
9. Cacti have a thick, waxy cuticle on their surface to keep moisture in.