Plants that Grow in Deserts are Called?
By BYJU'S Exam Prep
Updated on: November 9th, 2023
Plants that grow in deserts are called xerophytes. They are mostly found in a desert or an ice- or snow-covered region in the Alps or the Arctic. A plant species known as a xerophyte has evolved to live in environments with little liquid water, like a desert or an area covered in ice or snow in the Alps or the Arctic. Cacti, pineapples, and some Gymnosperm plants are well-known examples of xerophytes.
Table of content
Plants Grown in Deserts
The plants that fall under the xerophyte class grow in extremely dry conditions throughout the year, such as in deserts (psammophytes), on rock (lithophytes), or in alpine plants growing above 14000 feet altitude.
The survival characteristics of xerophyte are:
- Thick cuticle
- Reduction in size of transpiration surface
- Silvery hairs shield the leaves
- Increased water storage
- Widespread fibrous roots or deep taproots near the soil surface
Facts about the Plants that Grow in Deserts
Following are the crucial details on xerophyte:
- Water can be allocated specifically to areas where new tissue is forming.
- They can direct more water from the soil toward photosynthesis and growth because they lose less water to the atmosphere.
- They have deep-spreading roots and the ability to store water, so they can withstand prolonged periods of dry weather.
Summary:
Plants that Grow in Deserts are Called?
Xerophytes are plants that Grow in Deserts. The Alps, the Arctic, or a desert area where they can be found most frequently. A plant species called a xerophyte has evolved to survive in environments with little or no water, such as a desert or a region covered in snow or ice in the Alps or the Arctic. These plants are able to use water that they have stored on their own property.
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