How are desert plants adapted to survive with less water?

Desert plants are adapted to survive with limited water by having special features that help them store water and reduce water loss. These adaptations allow them to live in dry regions where rainfall is very low.

Many desert plants, such as cactus, have thick and fleshy stems that store water for long periods. Their leaves are often reduced in size or modified into spines, which helps decrease water loss through evaporation. Some desert plants also have long and deep roots that reach underground water sources.

These survival features show how plants adjust to different habitats. Adaptations in roots, stems, and leaves help desert plants continue growing even in extreme heat and dry environmental conditions.