Which of the following are genuine adaptations seen in the leaves of desert plants (xerophytes) to reduce water loss through transpiration?
1. A thick, waxy coating on the leaf surface
2. Leaves reduced to a very small size, or shed altogether
3. Leaves modified into hard spines or thorns
Select the correct answer using the code given below.

Question

Accepted Answer

D. 1, 2 and 3. All three are well-documented xerophytic adaptations. A thick, waxy cuticle on the leaf surface cuts down water loss by evaporation, reducing leaf size or shedding leaves altogether lowers the total surface area exposed to sun and wind, and converting leaves into hard spines, as seen in many cacti-like desert plants, achieves the same effect while also deterring grazing animals. Since none of the three can be ruled out, option D, all three, is correct.

Answer

A. 1 and 2 only

Answer

B. 2 and 3 only

Answer

C. 1 and 3 only

Answer

D. 1, 2 and 3