SURVIVAL CHARACTERISTICS
| Small leaves | Less surface area from which water can be lost |
| Thick leaves | Prevent leaves from "overheating". This insulation keeps leaves at a cooler temperature, slowing transpiration. |
| Waxy coating | Serves as a barrier to water loss. |
|
Grey green reflecting
(dark tops, light undersides) |
Reflect light and heat from leaf surface, reduce loss of water. |
| Stomates on undersurface of leaf | Water is lost through pores (stomata) which are located on the lower surface and help keep the leaf cool. |
| Downcurved leaves | Trap water vapor and slow down the rate of water loss ("wet suit" effect). |
| Hairs on leaves | Trap water vapor and slow down the rate of water loss. |
| Hairs on stems | Create air boundary layer, slow down air flow around plant, trap water vapor and slow down rate of water loss. |
| Aromatic oils | Bind water in large molecules to reduce amount of free water in tissue. Reduce water loss. |
Chaparral:A Forgotten Habitat Resource Unit is a part of LAEP
Learning Exchange.