Question

Which of the following features of plants is not helpful in adapting to desert life?

• A. Presence of sunken stomata
• B. Absence of trichomes on leaf surface
• C. Presence of thick cuticle on the leaf surface
• D. Leaves modified into spines

Answer 1

Answer: (B)

Absence of trichomes on leaf surface

Answer 2

Due to the less availability of water, the desert plants have modified themselves in order to prevent any water loss from its surface. The thick cuticle leaves modified as a spine and sunken stomata ensure that the rate of transpiration is reduced. Trichomes are tiny hair-like structures present on the epidermis. Their functions include defence against insects, protection from excessive transpiration and high heat. Some trichomes modify to function as glands to secrete essential oils and resins. Hence, their absence is not helpful in adapting to desert life.