Sunday, 19 January 2014

Plant Adaptations in arid environments

Sonoran Desert:

Saguaro Cactus:

  • Covered in dense pines which help to reflect solar rays
  • Has a ribbed stem which reduces wind currents thus reduces evapotranspiration.
  • Shallow roots covering a vast distance catches water that falls during storms before it evaporates.
  • Waxy cuticle reduces water loss.
  • Stomata sunk into stem meaning there is a low gradient decreases evapotranspiration.
  • Accordian-like stem which expands and fills with water during winter.
Creosote bush:
  • Stomata close during the day which reduces evapotranspiration.
  • Long tap roots to reach low ground water table.

Plants don't care about overheating!!


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