Plant adaptations to water availability

• Xerophytes - Plants in dry habitats with low water availability (Cacti + Marram grass)

  • Thick waxy cuticle - Minimise water loss
  • Sunken stomata - Reduce transpiration via reducing water vapour potential
  • Reduced number of stomata - Reduce water loss by transpiration
  • Reduced leaves
  • Hairy leaves - Reduced water vapour gradient
• Hydrophytes - Plants that live in water (Water lilies)

  • Thin or no waxy cuticle - Don't need to conserve water
  • Open stomata on upper surface - Max gas exchange
  • Reduced structure - Water supports leave
  • Wide flat leaves - Get as much light
  • Air sacs - Float on surface