If you have ever been to the desert, a thought of how desert plants survive this harsh environment and what enables these organisms to endure and even flourish despite the dry environment might have crossed your mind.
In this article, I will tell you all you need to know about desert plants and we are going to answer some related questions. Keep reading.
Do plants survive in the desert?
Yes, many plants are able to adapt and survive in the desert where other species of plants could not.
The desert is an extreme environment with intense temperatures and limited availability of water. For plants to survive here they must be able to cope with drought periods and conserve water where possible; this means that desert plant has developed unique adaptations which enable them to live in these harsh conditions.
Additionally, many desert plant species use techniques like nitrogen fixation through symbiotic relationships with bacteria in their roots or nutrient absorption through mycorrhizal fungi (which absorb organic matter) to access essential nutrients without needing a lot of water for growth and development.
What are desert plants called?
Desert plants are called Xerophytes, Xerophytes are the name given to these types of plants. These special plants possess unique physical characteristics which allow them to endure long periods of drought and intense heat.
Xerophytes feature thick waxy cuticles on their leaves or stems which help prevent water loss from evaporation, as well as deep root systems for accessing groundwater far below the surface.
In addition, many xerophytes also have small leaves with stomata located along the margins rather than on top; this helps reduce water retention when compared to larger leaf varieties with exposed stomata surfaces.
How do plants survive in the desert?
Plants survive in the desert because nature has found a way to make them thrive. The adaptations that plants have developed allow them to make the most of the limited resources available and create an ecosystem with numerous benefits.
Plants can grow in this hostile environment by using their specialized root structures, thick waxy coating on leaves, and efficient water usage.
These adaptations help them absorb and store moisture more effectively than other species of plants, allowing them to survive even when there is little rainfall or extreme temperatures present
Additionally, desert plants play an important role in providing food and shelter for animals living in these environments as well as helping preserve the soil from erosion.
Examples of plants that are found in the desert and a brief intro?
There are lots of species of plants that survive in a hot and dry place like the desert, in this section, I will list 3 of these plants and tell you a little about them.
The plants found in the desert include:
Ocotillo
The Ocotillo is a type of plant native to Arizona that can be identified by its tall, spiny stems and bright red flowers. These plants are well-adapted to the desert climate, requiring little water and having thick wax layers on their leaves to prevent moisture loss. Ocotillos thrive in dry soils with plenty of sunlight and produce edible fruit during the blooming season.
Despite their hardy nature, these plants can still suffer from cold temperatures – which is why they need to receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day.
Saguaro
The saguaro is a type of cactus native to Arizona that can be identified by its tall stature and large, white flowers. These plants are well-adapted to the desert climate, requiring little water and having thick wax layers on their leaves to prevent moisture loss. Saguaros thrive in dry soils with plenty of sunlight and produce edible fruit during the blooming season.
Despite their hardy nature, saguaros can still suffer from cold temperatures- which is why they need to receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day.
Yucca
Yucca is a type of cactus native to Arizona that can be identified by its long, narrow leaves and sharp spines. These plants are well-adapted to the desert climate, requiring little water and having thick wax layers on their leaves to prevent moisture loss. Yucca thrives in dry soils with plenty of sunlight and produces large white flowers during the blooming season.
Despite their hardy nature, yuccas can still suffer from cold temperatures- which is why they need to receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day.
Why do desert plants survive in dry and hot areas?
Desert plants survive dry and hot areas because they have developed different ways to survive such as deep root systems that search for small amounts of groundwater, thick waxy leaves that help retain moisture, and brightly colored flowers designed to attract pollinators.
All together these features allow many species native to arid regions to survive despite whatever environmental challenges come their way.
References:
https://www.enterneverland.com/plant-guide/baja-tree-ocotillo
https://www.mindbodygreen.com/articles/yucca-plant
https://brainygardener.com/carnegiea-gigantea-saguaro-care/