Xerophytes
Xerophytes are plants that have adapted to living in places with limited amounts of water. Examples of these places include the desert, sand dunes , alpine places, and snow-topped mountains. Some plants you would find in these places include cacti, marram grasses, the Joshua tree and Dotted Blazing Star.
|
Because of the very dry conditions, xerophytes have adapted so that they can absorb as much water as possible, as well as preventing the loss of water. Xerophytes have little or no leaves, a thick waxy cuticle, reduced opening of the stomata and deep roots in the ground; all to prevent water loss.
Animals can be a threat to xerophytes, therefore cacti have spikes in hope of fending off the animals that may come near and try to drink their water.
Animals can be a threat to xerophytes, therefore cacti have spikes in hope of fending off the animals that may come near and try to drink their water.