JAMB 2019 Biology · Question 3

Plants which can survive in extremely dry places are called

Options

  1. A.Mesophytes
  2. B.Xerophytes
  3. C.Hydrophytes
  4. D.Angiosperms

Answer: B. Xerophytes

Explanation written with AI and checked against the answer key

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks for the name of plants that survive in extremely dry (arid) habitats.

Step 2: Explain the concept Plants are grouped by how much water their habitat provides:

  • Xerophytes live in very dry places, such as deserts and semi-arid areas. "Xero" means dry.
  • Mesophytes live where water is moderate. Most common crops and garden plants, such as maize, hibiscus and mango, are mesophytes.
  • Hydrophytes live in water or very wet places, such as water lily and water lettuce. "Hydro" means water.
  • Angiosperms are flowering plants. This is a taxonomic group, not a classification by habitat. It includes plants from all of the above groups.

Step 3: Solve Plants that survive in extremely dry places are xerophytes. They have adaptations that reduce water loss and store water:

  • Thick, waxy cuticle
  • Reduced leaves, or leaves turned into spines (e.g., cactus)
  • Sunken stomata
  • Fleshy stems or leaves that store water (succulence)
  • Deep or widespread roots to reach water

Option A is for moderate conditions, option C is for water-loving plants, and option D is not a habitat-based term. So only B fits.

Exam tip: Remember the Greek roots: Xero = dry, Hydro = water, Meso = middle. Linking the prefix to the meaning will answer many questions of this type.

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