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9.2.10 Outline four adaptations of xerophytes that help to reduce transpiration. (2)
- These could include: reduced leaves, rolled leaves, spines, deep roots, thickened waxy cuticle, reduced number of stomata, stomata in pits surrounded by hairs, water storage tissue, low growth form, CAM (crassulacean acid metabolism) and C4 physiology.
- Vertical stems absorb sunlight early and late in the day, but not at midday when light is most intense
- Thick waxy cuticle covers the stem
- CAM (crassulacean acid metabolism) physiology, which involves the opening of stomata during the cool nights instead of in the intense heat of the day
- Spines take the place of leaves to reduce surface area, preventing transpiration
Questions:
Define xerophyte
Define transpiration
State four adaptations of xerophytes that help to reduce transpiration