Plants in hilly areas have to bear high speed winds and cold. Which of...
The trees that grow in hilly areas have needle like leaves, which are very tough and can survive in the cold, snow and wind.
Plants in hilly areas have to bear high speed winds and cold. Which of...
Adaptations of Plants in Hilly Areas
Plants in hilly areas face harsh environmental conditions such as high-speed winds and cold temperature. These plants have to adapt themselves to these conditions to survive. Let's discuss the adaptations of plants in hilly areas.
Tall and straight trunk with needle-like leaves
Plants in hilly areas have a tall and straight trunk with needle-like leaves. This adaptation helps them to reduce the resistance of wind and snow. It also helps them to shed snow and ice quickly, preventing the branches from breaking.
The needle-like leaves also have a smaller surface area, which helps in reducing water loss due to evaporation. These leaves are also coated with a waxy layer, which prevents water loss due to transpiration.
Leaves which are modified into spines
Plants in hilly areas also have leaves that are modified into spines. This adaptation helps them to reduce the surface area of the leaves, which results in less water loss due to transpiration.
The spines also protect the plant from herbivores. As the plants in hilly areas have limited resources, they cannot afford to lose their leaves to herbivores.
Conclusion
Plants in hilly areas have to face harsh environmental conditions. They have adapted themselves to these conditions by having a tall and straight trunk with needle-like leaves and leaves modified into spines. These adaptations help them to reduce water loss due to transpiration and protect the plant from herbivores.