Instead, cacti take it slow, reserving their growth and flowering for the rare wet seasons. In fact, a desert after a rainstorm can be almost unrecognizable as all the plants suddenly burst into bloom and the dormant insects and animals emerge to gather up enough food and water for the next long drought. Their stems are also coated with a thick wax , which cacti use in much the same way we would—as waterproofing. The only difference is in this case, the water is staying in instead of out!
Many cacti grow with ribs or ridges along their stems. A sphere provides maximum internal volume for water storage while minimizing the amount of surface area where that water could potentially evaporate.
Once a cactus has absorbed its fill of water, it can hold onto it for a very long time. There have been documented cases of cacti going for years without any rainfall, and only to spring right back to life once the rains return. Because of their shallow root systems, tall cacti are prone to toppling in unusually strong winds.
Scientists once cut into a cactus that had been dead more than eight months, and its flesh was still filled with water! One group of cacti—the 17 species in the genus Pereskia —look almost nothing like your typical cactus. Understanding how cacti survive in the desert is a great first step to keeping them alive in your own home or garden.
Their shallow root systems like to spread, so broad, shallow pots might be better than deep ones. So the fact that cacti prosper in the desert contradicts almost everything we know about plants who famously rely on water and, in most cases, reasonable temperatures to survive. Cacti have adapted themselves to be able to survive in arid climates. They have spines instead of leaves, usually have shallow root systems, and can store water within themselves.
Apart from that, their stems can photosynthesize. Over generations, cacti have developed a system that allows them to survive in harsh environments easily. They have shallow root systems, a great ability to store water, and stems that can photosynthesize. Moreover, they have spines that protect them from predators. These things help them thrive in deserts. With their reputation of being hot and arid, the Desert is most likely the last place you would expect to find vegetation.
Despite this, cacti have thrived and continue to thrive in deserts despite their unforgiving climates. Whatever the case, cacti are beloved plants that can be extremely rewarding to grow. I remember how pleased I was to see my baby cacti grow into a beautiful adult. Here is an awesome cactus set that is perfect for beginners.
Nov 20, Essence Watts May 3, I think tomorrow WOD of the day is animal noises. Wonderopolis May 4, Albert Link Feb 8, There must be something inside the cactus plant telling the cactus water is short supply, and we need to conserve water.
On the same token, there must be something in the plant telling the cactus there is plenty of water after a rain, renourish your self with water and get ready for another dry spell. What is inside the cactus that is telling the cactus what to do when it is dry, and the cactus needs to conserve water? Likewise what is inside the cactus telling the cactus there is plenty of water, and the cactus should store water for the next dry spell?
Wonderopolis Feb 9, May 28, Hi, Our class has a few questions for you! How does the cactus grow if people don't plant it? How do you open a cactus and get a drink? How does a cactus grow its spikes? Does a cactus have other liquid inside it other than water? Do you use the spikes to open the cactus?
How do the flowers grow on the cactus? We look forward to reading your answers. Thank you so much :. Wonderopolis May 28, Jimmyrock May 27, Wonderopolis May 27, Destiny May 26, Wonderopolis May 26, Sue May 26, Wow, what an artistic view of Saguaro Park, quite an excellent video!!!
Love the music too. What is the name of the background tune? Tyler May 26, Andreaisawesome May 18, I love the new version and also the Wonder of the Day!
Related Wonders for You to Explore Match its definition: changed in form or character. Word Match Congratulations! Share results.
Play Again Quit. Next Question. See your results. Share Results. Retake The Quiz. Be the first to know! Share with the World Tell everybody about Wonderopolis and its wonders. Share Wonderopolis. Add widget. You Got It! Not Quite! Humans can only survive days without water while the average species of cactus can survive two entire years without a drop of water!
The defining feature of cacti are their cluster of spines. Cactus spines are a modification of leaves that contain no living cells, allowing the cactus to conserve additional water. The spines create shade for the cactus while also acting as a defense mechanism. Sharp spines ward off most potential predators, but wild pigs, desert tortoises, and bighorn sheep still make room for cacti in their diets!
Cactus spines also help to collect water during the occasional desert rainstorm, trapping fog and dew in their specialized grooves. Cactus can also be of a healthy option for humans to munch on!
Cacti are full of vitamins and nutrients and are a food staple in Latin America.
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