Water Storage: Many desert plants, such as cacti, have specialized tissues for storing water, allowing them to survive extended periods of drought.
Reduced Leaf Surface: Desert plants often have small or modified leaves, reducing the surface area for water loss through transpiration.
Deep Root Systems: To tap into deeper water reserves, desert plants often develop extensive root systems that can reach underground water sources.
CAM Photosynthesis: Some desert plants, like succulents, utilize Crassulacean Acid Metabolism (CAM) photosynthesis, a process that allows them to open stomata at night to reduce water loss.
Hairy or Waxy Surfaces: Many desert plants have hairy or waxy surfaces on their leaves to minimize water loss through evaporation and reflect sunlight.
Shallow Spreading Roots: In arid environments with occasional rainfall, some desert plants have shallow, widespread roots to quickly absorb surface water.
Dormancy Strategies: Desert plants may go through periods of dormancy to conserve energy and water during unfavorable conditions.
Salt Tolerance: Some desert plants are adapted to saline soils, allowing them to thrive in environments where water sources may contain higher salt concentrations.