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What are three adaptions of desert plants ?

User Haziz
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Small leaves - these ensure that less water is lost from the plant by transpiration because the leaf has a smaller surface area.

Tap roots - these are long roots (7-10 metres long) that reach deep under the ground to access water supplies. The tap roots are much longer and bigger than the plant which is visible at the surface.

Spines - some plants have spines instead of leaves, eg cactuses. Spines lose less water than leaves so are very efficient in a hot climate. Spines also prevent animals from eating the plant.

Waxy skin - some leaves have a thick, waxy skin on their surface. This reduces water loss by transpiration.

Water storage - some plants, known as succulents, store water in their stems, leaves, roots or even fruits. Plants which store water in their leaves and stems also have a thick waxy skin so that they lose less water by transpiration.

User Zac Altman
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