Desert plants have developed various adaptations to survive in harsh desert environments. Some common adaptations of desert plants include:
-
Succulence: Many desert plants, such as cacti, have thick, fleshy stems or leaves that store water to survive long periods of drought.
-
Reduced leaf surface: Desert plants often have small or spiky leaves to minimize water loss through transpiration.
-
Deep root systems: Desert plants have deep root systems that allow them to tap into underground water sources.
-
CAM photosynthesis: Some desert plants use Crassulacean Acid Metabolism (CAM) photosynthesis, a unique pathway that allows them to conserve water by opening their stomata at night and closing them during the day.
-
Hairy or waxy coatings: Many desert plants have hairs or waxy coatings on their leaves to reduce water loss and reflect sunlight.
These adaptations help desert plants thrive in arid and hot environments with limited water availability.
