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How does agave survive in the desert?

Updated: 8/11/2023
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Wiki User

10y ago

Best Answer

The cacti (in general) have made many modifications to collect, store and retain water. Adaptations include:

  • a low surface to volume ratio to reduce evaporation
  • a waxy outer layer to prevent transpiration of water
  • a modified CO2 scavenging system to allow CO2 capture with minimum water loss
  • a wide shallow root system to collect any water that reaches the soil
  • a responsive root system to capitalize on any abundant water after a rainfall
  • in some cacti deep taproot to store water in cooler environment
  • spines to minimize surface damage by animal browsing
  • long lasting (non-deciduous) leaves to minimise regrowth

cactus survive in the dessert because it has water on his body
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Waldo Mayer

Lvl 13
1y ago
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9y ago

They don't! Cacti and agaves are natives of the Americas and not found naturally in Africa. Any agaves or cacti seen in the Sahara are planted by man and would be considered as invasive species.

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10y ago

Agave plants have thorns on the leaves' tips, which protect them from many predators. They also have leaf formations that trap rain and guide the moisture to the roots.

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Q: How does agave survive in the desert?
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