xerophyte
UK: ˈzɪərəfaɪt | US: ˈzɪrəˌfaɪt
n. A plant adapted to grow in dry or desert conditions.
The word "xerophyte" combines two Greek-derived morphemes:
- "xero-" (from Greek xēros, meaning "dry")
- "-phyte" (from Greek phyton, meaning "plant").
The term emerged in the 19th century to describe plants that thrive in arid environments, reflecting the scientific practice of using Greek roots to name biological adaptations. The logic is straightforward: "dry" + "plant" = a plant suited to dryness.
Cacti are classic examples of xerophytes due to their water-storing capabilities.
Botanists study xerophytes to understand drought resistance in crops.
The desert’s xerophytes have thick cuticles to minimize water loss.
Unlike hydrophytes, xerophytes require very little moisture to survive.
Some xerophytes shed leaves during droughts to conserve resources.