Question

In xerophytes, the presence of thick cuticle, scales and few sunken stomata on the leaf is to

• A. Stop transpiration
• B. Protect from light
• C. Facilitate transpiration
• D. Reduce transpiration

Answer 1

Answer: (D)

Reduce transpiration

Xerophytes are the plants growing in water scarcity. These plants show a number of adaptations to conserve water, like presence of thick cuticle layer, reduction in size of leaves to scales or spines, multilayered epidermis and sunken stomata in leaves. These plants also have well developed extensive root system, which helps in absorbing as much water as possible. Some xerophytes, like cactus open their stomata during night time and show crassulacean acid metabolism (CAM).