Stomata on the upper surface of leaves in floating plants

Stomata are tiny openings on leaves that allow for gas exchange, including the intake of carbon dioxide and the release of oxygen and water vapor. They are important for plant growth and survival.

Floating plants are those that grow on the surface of water bodies, such as ponds and lakes. These plants have a unique adaptation of having stomata on the upper surface of their leaves, rather than on the lower surface like most land plants.

Reasons for stomata on the upper surface of leaves in floating plants

1. Adaptation to water: Floating plants are adapted to living on the surface of water bodies, and having stomata on the upper surface of their leaves helps them to absorb carbon dioxide from the air above the water surface, where it is more concentrated.

2. Protection from water: Having stomata on the upper surface of leaves also helps to protect them from being submerged in water. This is important because stomata need to be open to allow for gas exchange, but if they are submerged in water, they can't function properly.

3. Reduction of water loss: Having stomata on the upper surface of leaves may also help to reduce water loss in floating plants, as the air above the water surface is often more humid than the air below.

Conclusion

In conclusion, floating plants have stomata on the upper surface of their leaves to adapt to their unique environment, protect themselves from water, and reduce water loss.