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.

References[edit | edit source]

Xerophyte Resources
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