Home » UPSC IAS » Which of the following leaf modifications occurs/occur in desert areas

Which of the following leaf modifications occurs/occur in desert areas

June 1, 2025 by rawan239

Which of the following leaf modifications occurs/occur in desert areas to inhibit water loss?

1. Hard and waxy leaves
2. Tiny leaves or no leaves
3. Thorns instead of leaves

Select the correct answer using the codes given below.

1 and 2 only

2 only

1 and 3 only

1, 2 and 3

This question was previously asked in

UPSC IAS – 2013

Download PDF Attempt Online

All the listed leaf modifications occur in desert areas to inhibit water loss: hard and waxy leaves, tiny leaves or no leaves, and thorns instead of leaves.

Desert plants (xerophytes) have evolved various adaptations to survive in arid environments with limited water availability. 1. Hard and waxy leaves (with thick cuticles) reduce cuticular transpiration. 2. Having tiny leaves or shedding leaves during dry periods minimizes the surface area for transpiration. Some plants have modified stems that photosynthesize instead of leaves. 3. Thorns are often modified leaves or stipules; they drastically reduce the surface area for transpiration and also deter herbivores, preventing tissue damage that could lead to water loss.

Other adaptations in desert plants include sunken stomata, fleshy stems or leaves for water storage (succulence), extensive root systems, and C4 or CAM photosynthesis pathways which are more water-efficient.

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