Xerophile (Noun)
Meaning
Plant adapted for life with a limited supply of water; compare hydrophyte and mesophyte.
Classification
Nouns denoting plants.
Examples
- The cactus is a type of xerophile that has adapted to store water in its fleshy stems to survive in the arid desert environment.
- The succulent plants in the garden were carefully chosen for their xerophile properties, allowing them to thrive with minimal watering.
- In regions with low rainfall, xerophiles such as yucca plants and Joshua trees dominate the landscape with their deep roots and waxy leaves.
- This rare type of xerophile has developed an extensive root system to absorb water quickly during brief desert storms.
- Botanists often study xerophiles to learn more about plant adaptation and develop new strategies for drought-resistant crops.