The plants that grow in deserts or very dry areas are referred to as

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks for the term used for plants that grow in deserts or very dry areas.

Step 2: Explain the concept Plants are grouped by the water conditions of their habitat. The prefix in each name tells you the habitat:

• Xerophytes (xero = dry): plants adapted to very dry conditions, such as cactus, aloe vera, and Euphorbia.
• Mesophytes (meso = middle): plants that grow in moderate conditions with average water, such as maize, hibiscus, and most crop plants.
• Hydrophytes (hydro = water): plants that grow in water or very wet places, such as water lily and water lettuce.
• Epiphytes (epi = upon): plants that grow on other plants for support, not for water or nutrients, such as some orchids and ferns on tree trunks.

Step 3: Solve

• A. Mesophytes live in moderate water conditions, so this is wrong.
• B. Hydrophytes live in water, the opposite of the habitat described, so this is wrong.
• C. Epiphytes grow on other plants, which has nothing to do with dryness, so this is wrong.
• D. Xerophytes are adapted to deserts and dry areas, so this is correct.

Common adaptations of xerophytes (often asked in JAMB and WASSCE):

• Thick, waxy cuticle to reduce water loss
• Reduced leaves or spines, as in cactus, to reduce transpiration
• Sunken stomata
• Fleshy stems or leaves that store water
• Long, widespread roots to absorb water

Step 4: Answer The correct answer is D. xerophytes.

Exam tip: Link the Greek prefix to the habitat. "Xero" sounds like "zero", meaning zero water. "Hydro" means water, and "meso" means middle. This trick can help you answer many similar questions quickly.