Which of the following leaf modifications occur(s) in the desert areas to inhibit water loss ?
- Hard and waxy leaves
- Tiny leaves
- Thorns instead of leaves
Select the correct answer using the code given below :
2 and 3 only
2 only
3 only
1, 2 and 3
Answer is Wrong!
Answer is Right!
This question was previously asked in
UPSC IAS – 2018
1. Hard and waxy leaves: A thick, waxy cuticle on the leaf surface reduces evaporation of water.
2. Tiny leaves: Reducing the surface area of leaves directly reduces the total surface area available for transpiration.
3. Thorns instead of leaves: Thorns are often modified leaves or branches. If they are modified leaves (e.g., in cacti), they drastically reduce the surface area for transpiration. Thorns also deter herbivores, protecting the plant.
– Adaptations include reducing leaf surface area and preventing water loss through barriers.
– Waxy cuticle, reduced leaf size, and modifications like thorns are common water-conserving adaptations.