Water is essential for the survival of every living organism, be it an insect, tree, aquatic animals, etc. One exceptional quality of these plants is they can store water for long, using it slowly where there is need.
They take the water in abundance and use it slowly as and when required. The spines of a cactus safeguard themselves from humans and animals.
These plants have wide and outstretched roots so when it rains these plants easily collect water and store water in its body for a longer run.
Let’s talk about the basic characteristics of desert plants
– Outstretched root systems which go deep into the soil in search of water. – Roots have myriads of root hairs to absorb hair.
– Leaves are adjusted into spines as in cactus. – Leaves are thick, flat which helps in photosynthesis.
These are some of the reasons for the healthy growth of the plants in deserts. When it rains desert plants absorb water quickly. The moisture is evaporated through the leaves.
Functions of Water in Plants
– Water is important for plants to maintain the turgidity of cells. – It transports nutrients and organic matter throughout the plants.
– Water is an essential component for protoplasm. – Water helps in the process of photosynthesis by which plants prepare their food.
There are several features which help desert plants in adaptation. Water helps pants to maintain turgidity of cells.