Question

Which of the following features helps the leaves of gymnosperms to withstand extremes of temperature, humidity and wind?

• A. Needle-like leaf
• B. Thick cuticle
• C. Sunken stomata
• D. All of these

Answer 1

The correct option is D All of these

Conifers have several xerophytic characters such as needle-like leaves (e.g., Pinus), scale-like leaves (e.g., Thuja) or small and leathery leaves (e.g., Araucaria), thick cuticle, sclerenchymatous hypodermis and sunken stomata to reduce transpiration. They are, thus, well adapted to withstand extremes of temperatures, humididty and wind.