Adaptations of Xerophytes: Rolled Leaves
- Epidermal Cells are large and thin-walled. They are found at the bases of the grooves and shrink when they loose water from transpiration. This causes the leaf to shrink and roll up on to itself. This reduces the surface transipration can occur over.
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Adaptations of Xerophytes: Sunken Stomata
- Stomata are found in grooves on the inner side of the leaf. They are found in pits or depressions so that water is trapped outside the stomata. This reduces the the water potential gradient between the leaf and the atmosphere, thus reducing the rate of diffusion of water.
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Adaptations of Xerophytes: Hairs
- Hairs are stiff and interlocking; they trap water vapour and reduce the water potential gradient.
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Adaptations of Xerophytes: Thick Cuticle
- The cuticle is waxy and covers the leaf surface which reduces water loss. The thicker the cuticle is the lower the rate of cuticular transpiration.
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