Xerophyte
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 | ||
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD