Explain how desert plants have adapted to help them survive in extreme environments

Think about the extreme conditions found in desertsHot temperaturesLack of water for long periods of timeVulnerable to animals
Think about the characteristics of these plants:Small leavesSpikesLarge stem Large roots Waxy cuticle
Connect the characteristics to the conditions to show how they have adapted:small leaves - enables a reduced surface area so the plants lose less water in the heatSpikes - Prevent animals eating them for waterWaxy cuticle - reduces water loss through a lack of evaporationLarge stem - collects and stores water so can last a long period of time without waterWidespread roots - collect water from a large area

CB
Answered by Chloe B. Biology tutor

3650 Views

See similar Biology GCSE tutors

Related Biology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What is an enzyme and how does it work?


Human body temperature is kept within a narrow range. When the core body temperature is too low, this is detected by the thermoregulatory centre in the brain. Describe how the body responds when a decrease in core body temperature is detected.


what are the components of the sensory neurone


What is active transport the movement of and what does it need to occur? Give some examples of where is might occur in the human body.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning