Question

What are the adaptations of xerophytes makes them to survive successfully in xereic conditions?

Answer 1

Adaptations of xerophytes:
1. They have well developed roots.
Roots grow very deep and reach the layers where water is available as in Calotropis.
2. They store water in succulent water storing parenchymatous tissues.
Example: Opuntia, Aloe vera.
3. They have small sized leaves with waxy coating.
e.g. Acacia. In some plants, leaves are modified into spines.
Example: Opuntia.
4. Some of the xerophytes complete their life cycle within a very short period when sufficient moisture is available