Xerophytes

Definition of Xerophytes

Plant species that get adapted and survive the dry climatic conditions
Examples: Catcus, opuntia, bromeliads,aloe vera

Xerpophytes are the plants that get adapted to the dessert or arid conditions such as water scarcity, dry air and hot temperature
They have well developed morphology and physiology to suit the dessert conditions
The main adaptation of the xerophytes is reduced surface area for minimising the loss of water through evaporation, also known as transpiration
The following are the ways in which the xerophytes adapt themselves to the dry environment
They have specialised tissues, non photosynthetic parenchyma cells for storing water
Water storing by the plant parts is known as ‘succulence’
The water storing structures in some xerophytic plants are roots, trunks, stem and leaves
Some have thin or narrow leaves, or leaves modified into spine for reducing the water loss
There are numerous’ stomata’ that can help massive amounts of gaseous exchange
The opening of the stomata are also adapted to open only during the night to reduce evaporation
Presence of thick and fleshy stem, waxy leaf coating reflect sunlight and reduce evaporation
Development of hairy leaf covering to break the wind and reduce the air flow and ability to fold the leaves
Some plants may drop their leaves in dryness
The two types of the Xerophytes are
i) Succulent plants: Plants that store water in stems or leaves. Example: The plants belonging to Cactaceae
ii) Bulbs: Water stored in the underground parts of the plant. These generally remain dormant during the drought season.