Which of the following features of plants is not helpful in adapting to desert life?
- Presence of thick cuticle on the leaf surface
- Leaves modified into spines
- Presence of sunken stomata
- Absence of trichomes on leaf surface
The Correct Option is D
Approach Solution - 1
Desert plants typically exhibit adaptations such as thick cuticles (A) to reduce water loss, spine-like leaves (B) to minimize surface area and deter herbivores, and sunken stomata (C) to trap humid air and reduce transpiration. Trichomes (hair-like structures) are actually beneficial in arid environments—they reflect sunlight, reduce air flow over stomata, and sometimes secrete protective compounds.
Their absence (D) would deprive plants of these advantages, making this feature non-adaptive for desert survival.
Thus, (D) is the exception among the listed traits.
The correct answer is (D) Absence of trichomes on leaf surface.
Approach Solution -2
Desert adaptations:
- (A) Thick cuticle: Reduces water loss.
- (B) Spines: Minimize transpiration.
- (C) Sunken stomata: Traps moist air.
Trichomes: Reflect sunlight and reduce transpiration (their absence is disadvantageous).
Correct Answer: (D) Absence of trichomes on leaf surface
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