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No matter the organism, water plays a key role in almost every chemical reaction. Therefore, plants have adapted in many ways to help combat water loss and resist drought. Here are four important adaptations:

The Cuticle

The cuticle is a layer of epidermis cells in vascular plants. The epidermis cells eject a waxy, water-repelling substance (cutin) that keeps water locked within the plant.

Leaf Hairs

Leaf hairs deflect some sunlight and maintain a cooler temperature in the plant.

Stomata

The stomata are pores within the cuticle of the leaf found on the underside of a plant’s leaves or on the stem. Two guard cells surround the stomata, causing a “doorway” effect, and can either increase or decrease in size. When the guard cells increase, it seals off the stomata, keeping water in the plant. When the guard cells decrease in size, it allows Carbon Dioxide to enter the plant and water vapor and oxygen to leave the plant.

Partnerships with microorganisms

Plants form symbiotic relationships with soil microorganisms like endo and ecto mycorrhizae fungi. Plant roots exude sugars which act as fuel for the mycorrhizae, while mycorrhizae help roots mine for moisture deep within the soil.