UPSC CSE Prelims
Question 90
Which of the following leaf modifications occur(s) in the desert areas to inhibit water loss ?
- Hard and waxy leaves
- Tiny leaves
- Thorns instead of leaves
Select the correct answer using the code given below :
View correct answer and explanation
Correct answer: D
Correct Option: D
Explanation: Xerophytic desert-plant adaptations minimise transpiration through cuticles/wax, small leaf area and leaf transformation into spines or thorns. All three listed adaptations conserve water.
Statement/Pair-wise Analysis:
Statement/Item 1: Correct - Thick, hard, waxy surfaces reduce evaporative loss from leaves.
Statement/Item 2: Correct - Tiny leaves provide less surface area for transpiration.
Statement/Item 3: Correct - Spines or thorn-like modified leaves greatly reduce transpirational surface.
Option-wise Analysis:
A: Incorrect - omits correct statement/item 1.
B: Incorrect - omits correct statement/items 1, 3.
C: Incorrect - omits correct statement/items 1, 2.
D: Correct - includes all and only the true statements/items.