adaptations in xerophytes

• xerophytes are plants that have adapted to live in dry and arid environments
• small leaf surface area - reduced surface area for evaporation
• sunken stomata - maintains humid air around the stomata to reduce water potential gradient
• stomatal hairs - maintains humid air around the stomata to reduce the water potential gradient to reduce evaporation
• rolled leaves - reduces effects of wind to reduce evaporation
• extensive root systems - maximises water uptake, helps to increase chances of contacting water
• swollen stems - to store collected water
• a reduced number of stomata - reduce the number of places water can evaporate from
• thicker, waxy cuticle - waterproof leaves and stems to reduce evaporation