Phreatophytes are the plants adapted to grow in

Phreatophytes are the plants adapted to grow in

moist shaded places
rocky environments
arid environments
active volcanic lava
This question was previously asked in
UPSC CAPF – 2019
The correct answer is C, arid environments.
Phreatophytes are plants that are adapted to arid or semi-arid environments by having very deep root systems that can reach the water table.
The term “phreatophyte” comes from the Greek words ‘phrear’ (well) and ‘phuton’ (plant). These plants rely on groundwater for survival, making them common indicators of groundwater levels in regions where surface water is scarce.