Desert Plant Leaf Modifications
Question
Which of the following leaf modifications occur(s) in the desert areas to inhibit water loss?
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
- 1.
Hard and waxy leaves occur in desert areas to inhibit water loss
- 2.
Tiny leaves occur in desert areas to inhibit water loss
- 3.
Thorns instead of leaves occur in desert areas to inhibit water loss
Options
2 and 3 only
2 only
3 only
1, 2 and 3
Explanation
All three modifications are genuine xerophytic adaptations found in desert plants to minimize water loss through transpiration. Statement 1 is correct: Hard and waxy (cuticle) leaves reduce water loss by creating a protective layer. Statement 2 is correct: Tiny leaves reduce the surface area available for transpiration, thereby conserving water. Statement 3 is correct: Many desert plants (like acacias and cacti) have modified leaves into thorns or spines, which are protective structures that also significantly reduce water loss compared to normal leaves. Classic examples include prickly pear cacti and acacia trees. > Hard waxy leaves (cuticle), tiny leaves (reduced area), and thorns (modified leaves) are all key xerophytic adaptations in deserts to combat water loss. Answer: (d).
Question details
Year
2018
Paper
GS Paper 1
Question
Q2
Subject
Environment
Sub-topic
Plant Adaptations to Arid Environments
Type
Statement-based
Difficulty
Easy
Nature
Static
Source hint
NCERT Biology - Plant Kingdom and Ecology
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