Describe and explain 3 typical adaptations of a xerophytic plant. ( 6 marks).

-  Thick waxy cuticle, provides a layer that allows light to pass through but is still waterproof, helping to prevent the evaporation and loss of water from the leaf surface. -  Hairy leaves with sunken stomata. Both of these adaptations help prevent water loss by trapping water vapour just above the surface of the leaf and above the stomata, creating a warm and saturated microclimate in the area, which means that there is less of a concentration gradient and so less evaporation and diffusion of the water out of the stomata pore. - Curled and spiny leaves. Spiny leaves are very thin and curled leaves both function similarly in that they reduce the exposed surface area of the leaves which means that there is less opportunity for the evaporation and loss of water vapour.