How do desert plants prevent loss of water?
Xeric adaptations of desert plants: Some xerophytes remain dormant either as seeds or as roots and during rains, they sprout up. It is termed ephemerals, e.g. Cassia, Argemone. Some desert plants develop succulent organs (stems, leaves and roots), e.g. Asparagus, Begonia, Bryophyilum. Presence of extensive root system. Either leaf is absent or small¬sized leaves present to minimise the rate of transpiration. The stomata get sunken to reduce the rate of transpiration. Presence of thick cuticle on stem and leaf surfaces. This reduces the rate of transpiration. Shedding of leaves in some desert plants. This helps in reducing the surface area and water loss.
