A xerophyte is a species of plant that has adaptations to survive in an environment with little liquid water such as a desert or ice- or snow-covered region in the Alps or the Arctic. Popular examples of xerophytes are cacti, pineapple, and some Gymnosperm plants. Xerophyte adaptations increase water intake, limit water loss, and store water efficiently. Water intake adaptations include deep or widespread roots, and high salt content to increase osmosis. Xerophytes have thick cuticles, lost or finely divided leaves, reduced stomata, and CAM photosynthesis (Crassulacean acid metabolism, also known as CAM photosynthesis, is a carbon fixation pathway that evolved in some plants as an adaptation to arid conditions).
