A xerophyte conserves water by possession of the following features except

Analyze the question: It asks which feature a xerophyte does not use to conserve water. The key word is "except", so we are looking for the odd one out.

Concept: Xerophytes are plants adapted to dry habitats, such as cactus, Euphorbia and plants of the Sahel and savanna. Their main adaptations reduce water loss (transpiration) or store water:

• Thick waxy cuticle, which reduces evaporation from the leaf surface.
• Sunken (recessed) stomata, which trap humid air and reduce transpiration.
• Reduced leaves, spines or needle-like leaves, which give a small surface area for water loss.
• Fleshy stems or leaves, which store water (succulents like cactus).
• Deep or widespread roots, which absorb water from far away.
• Leaf rolling or hairy leaves, which trap moisture.

Step-by-step check of the options:

• A. Thick cuticle: Yes, it reduces water loss. This is a xerophytic feature.
• B. Sunken stomata: Yes, it reduces transpiration. This is a xerophytic feature.
• C. Broad leaves: Broad leaves have a large surface area, so they lose a lot of water by transpiration. This is not a water-conserving feature. It is typical of plants in moist habitats (mesophytes and hydrophytes).
• D. Fleshy stem: Yes, it stores water. This is a xerophytic feature.

Answer: The exception is C. broad leaves.

Tip: For xerophyte questions, think "small, thick, sunken, stored". Anything large, thin or broad (like broad leaves) is the odd one out. Also remember that "except" questions ask you to find the false statement.