Cactus is one of the most cold-resistant plants in the world. So why is the cactus resistant to drought? The editor checked the information and found that it is mainly because of the comprehensive result of the physiological structure and appearance of the cactus. This reason also explains why the cactus has thorns. Let’s take a look at the reasons why cacti are drought-tolerant and decipher why cactus has thorns.
< /p>
We still have to analyze the reasons why cactus is drought-resistant from the characteristics of the cactus itself. Let’s analyze why cactus is drought-resistant from three parts: roots, stems, and leaves.
1. Roots: The roots of cactus are much more sensitive to water than ordinary plants. Once they feel water, they will absorb it immediately. Moreover, the root system grows rapidly and is very developed. Some varieties can penetrate tens of meters into the ground to obtain water. The taproot of some varieties will develop into a water storage organ - radish root - that has no ability to absorb or breathe.
2. Stems: The stems of most cactus varieties are rich in flesh. In the rainy season, they absorb water through the roots and leaves. The stems store a large amount of water, so they swell and plump. In the dry season, they will dry up and shrink as the water is consumed. And the stem is also the photosynthetic organ of the cactus.
3. Leaves: The leaves of cactus have evolved into spiny, feathery, hairy, etc. shapes. There are stomata under the microscope for breathing and absorbing moisture from the air. During the rainy season, the thorns are plump and thick, and the stomata open to absorb moisture from the air. During drought, the thorns dry up and shrink, and the stomata shrink to reduce water loss caused by transpiration. The pinnate and hairy leaves will grow very luxuriantly in seasons with strong sunlight, which reduces the damage to the stems caused by excessive sunlight.
Seeing the reason why these cacti are drought-resistant, you will understand that the thorns of the cactus are actually the leaves of the cactus, which evolved from being in a drought environment for a long time. Parents, you can also understand why the cactus is covered with thorns!< /p>
Extended reading:
1. Illustration of transplanting cactus seedlings
2. How to eat cactus fruit. Four ways to eat cactus fruit and precautions
3. Can prickly pear be grown in water? How to grow hydroponic cactus
4. Cactus cultivation methods and precautions
5. When does the cactus bloom and what does it mean?
