Xerophyte

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Xerophyte

A Xerophyte is a species of plant that has adapted to survive in an environment with little liquid water, such as an arid desert or an ice- or snow-covered region in the Alpine tundra. Xerophytes have adapted to be able to survive in these conditions, which are extreme for most plants.

Characteristics[edit | edit source]

Xerophytes have a number of adaptations that enable them to survive in dry environments. These include:

  • Stomata that can open to allow air in and close to prevent water loss.
  • Cuticles that are thick and waxy to reduce water loss.
  • Leaf size and shape that reduces the surface area exposed to the air, reducing water loss.
  • Root systems that are extensive and can reach deep into the soil to access water.
  • Succulence, or the ability to store water in their leaves, stems, and roots.

Types of Xerophytes[edit | edit source]

There are several types of xerophytes, including:

  • Ephemerals, which complete their life cycle during periods of available moisture, and survive dry periods as seeds.
  • Succulents, which store water in their leaves, stems, and/or roots.
  • Non-succulent perennials, which have adaptations such as small leaves and deep roots to survive dry periods.
  • Shrubs and trees, which have deep root systems and thick bark to reduce water loss.

Examples of Xerophytes[edit | edit source]

Some examples of xerophytes include:

  • The cactus family, which includes many succulent xerophytes.
  • The Aloe genus, which includes many succulent xerophytes.
  • The Agave genus, which includes many succulent xerophytes.
  • The Joshua tree, a non-succulent perennial xerophyte.

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

Xerophyte Resources

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD