Cactus stems get bigger for two main reasons. One reason is normal growth. The other is an increase in the amounts of stored water, nutrient solutions, and energizing photosynthetic products. This last reason is why a cactus is ribbed. Its ribbing allows the cactus to decrease its size when it has lesser amounts in storage, and to increase with greater amounts.
Cactus
Cactus plants use their stems for storage. So that's where starches are stored. In fact, stems are where a cactus plant stores everything. Other, non cactus plants may use their roots for storage. But cactus roots are much too fibrous and shallow.
A cactus has no leaves but does have a stem.
A cactus is an example of a modified stem known as a succulent stem. These stems are adapted to store water, allowing the plant to survive in arid environments. Unlike typical stems, cactus stems often have a thick, fleshy texture and can perform photosynthesis, compensating for their lack of leaves.
Yes there are photosynthetic stems. Green stems carry out photosynthesis. Example: cactus
light refraction of the presence of chlorophyll.
Cactus stems are very thick because they store water.
Cactus are able to conserve water due to their stems. They have stems that are able to store water for when it is needed.
Their stems are thick and sponge-like.
The roots absorb water and that makes the stem grow
Cacti are able to store water in their fleshy stems.
The cactus is vascular and contains phloen and xylem for transpiration and sap flow.