Xerophyte Plants Flashcards
What is a xerophyte plant?
Plants adapted to a dry habitat
What are the adaptations of a xerophyte plant?
Reduced leaf surface area
Thick waxy cuticle
Sunken stomata
CAM photosynthesis
Water storing tissues
Deep root systems
Reduced transpiration
How is reduced leaf surface area an adaptation?
Reduces surface area exposed to the sun
Lower number of stomata
Less evaporation / transpiration
How is a thick waxy cuticle an adaptation?
Thicker than plants in moist environments
Prevents water loss
By forming a barrier against evaporation
How is sunken stomata an adaptation?
Found sunken in pits of leaves
Creates a higher humidity around the stomata
So less of a concentration gradient
How is CAM photosynthesis an adaptation?
Allows stomata to open at night
Allows more CO2 to enter
Stored as organic acids
Minimises water loss during the day
How are water storing tissues an adaptation?
Specialised tissues (e.g leaves) store water for use during dry periods
Allows plants to survive during periods of drought
How are deep root systems an adaptation?
Roots can tap into groundwater / deeper soil layers
Helps to access water sources that are inaccessible to other plants
How is reduced transpiration an adaptation?
Mechanisms such as stomata and hairs on leaves
Allows reduced hair movement around the leaf structure
