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How do plants survive in arid regions?

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Plants have evolved various strategies to survive in arid regions where water is scarce. Some common adaptations include:

  1. Root Systems: Many plants in arid regions have deep and extensive root systems that help them access water stored deep in the ground.

  2. Reduced Leaf Surface: Plants often have small or spiky leaves to reduce water loss through transpiration.

  3. CAM Photosynthesis: Some plants, like cacti, use a specialized form of photosynthesis called CAM photosynthesis, which allows them to open their stomata at night when it's cooler and reduce water loss.

  4. Water Storage: Succulent plants like cacti store water in their fleshy stems or leaves to survive during dry periods.

  5. Waxy Coatings: Plants may have waxy coatings on their leaves to reduce water loss through evaporation.

By employing these and other adaptations, plants are able to thrive in arid regions despite the challenging conditions.

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