Some information about Adaptation of Xerophytes

Adaptation of Xerophytes

              The plants that are growing in dry lands are called xerophytes. They are also known as desert plants. These plants have to withstand high temperature, high intensity of light, scarcity of water, high velocity of wind, etc. 

The xerophytes have the following adaptations.

1. The stem is stunted in growth and it gives bushy appearance.

2. The stems are very hard, woody and covered by thick bark e.g. Zizphus.

3. In Opuntia, the stem is flat and fleshy. The leaves are modified into spines to check the water loss. In the absence of leaves, the stem becomes fleshy, green and leaf like to perform the function of leaf. Such modified stem is called phylloclade. 

4. In Euphorbia, the stem becomes fleshy and green. The leaves are reduced and the stem is provided with a number of spines.

5. In Nerium and Calotropis, the leaves are thick, leathery and shiny. They have a thick waxy coating on the upper surface. This prevents water loss and reflects light.

6. Certain xerophytes shed their leaves during dry period to prevent water loss. eg. Casurina.

7. The root system is well developed and root hairs are provided with root caps.