Question

Some of the characteristic features of plants are given below:
(i) Plants lose very less water through transpiration.
(ii) Roots grow very deep into the soil.
(iii) Stems are coated with thick waxy layer.
(iv) Plants lose a lot of water through transpiration.

Which of the combination of characteristics mentioned above are the features shown by desert plants?

• A. (iii) and (iv)
• B. (ii) and (iii)
• C. (ii) and (iv)
• D. (i), (ii) and (iii)

Answer 1

The correct option is D (i), (ii) and (iii)

Desert plants grow in water scarce regions. Cactus is the most common example of desert plants. Some of the characteristic features of desert plants are:
$\bullet$ They have needle like leaves or leaves are modified into thorns, which help them to lose very less water through transpiration.
$\bullet$ Their roots grow very deep into the soil in search of water.
$\bullet$ Their stems are green and can perform photosynthesis.
$\bullet$ The stems are fleshy and store water and food.
$\bullet$ Their leaves are coated with thick waxy layer that minimises the water loss.