Which of the following leaf modifications occurs/occur in desert areas to inhibit water loss? 1. Hard and waxy leaves 2. Tiny leaves or no leaves 3. Thorns instead of leaves Select the correct answer using the codes given below.

Correct Option (D): Desert plants exhibit various morphological adaptations to minimize water loss (transpiration) in arid environments. All three listed modifications are crucial for survival in such conditions: - Hard and waxy leaves: The presence of a thick cuticle on the leaf surface reduces water evaporation. The waxy coating acts as a barrier, limiting water loss. - Tiny leaves or no leaves: Reducing the total leaf surface area directly decreases the number of stomata exposed to the atmosphere, thereby minimizing transpiration. In some cases, leaves are completely absent, and photosynthesis is carried out by modified stems. - Thorns instead of leaves: Thorns are modified leaves that have a significantly reduced surface area and lack stomata, thus preventing water loss through transpiration. They also serve as a defense mechanism against herbivores. Incorrect Options: Options (A), (B), and (C) are incorrect because they exclude one or more of the listed adaptations that are essential for desert plants to inhibit water loss. Each of the three modifications plays a distinct role in water conservation strategies of xerophytes.

IAS 2013 — Environment & Ecology Environment & Ecology

2013mcqeasy

Which of the following leaf modifications occurs/occur in desert areas to inhibit water loss?

Hard and waxy leaves
Tiny leaves or no leaves
Thorns instead of leaves

Select the correct answer using the codes given below.

Official previous-year question

Verified 2 Aug 2026.

Options

A1 and 2 only
B2 only
C1 and 3 only
D1, 2 and 3

Did you get this right?

Solution

Correct Option (D):

Desert plants exhibit various morphological adaptations to minimize water loss (transpiration) in arid environments. All three listed modifications are crucial for survival in such conditions:

Hard and waxy leaves: The presence of a thick cuticle on the leaf surface reduces water evaporation. The waxy coating acts as a barrier, limiting water loss.
Tiny leaves or no leaves: Reducing the total leaf surface area directly decreases the number of stomata exposed to the atmosphere, thereby minimizing transpiration. In some cases, leaves are completely absent, and photosynthesis is carried out by modified stems.
Thorns instead of leaves: Thorns are modified leaves that have a significantly reduced surface area and lack stomata, thus preventing water loss through transpiration. They also serve as a defense mechanism against herbivores.

Incorrect Options:

Options (A), (B), and (C) are incorrect because they exclude one or more of the listed adaptations that are essential for desert plants to inhibit water loss. Each of the three modifications plays a distinct role in water conservation strategies of xerophytes.

Your note

IAS Environment & Ecology in other years

Environment & Ecology 2026 Environment & Ecology 2025 Environment & Ecology 2024 Environment & Ecology 2023 Environment & Ecology 2022 Environment & Ecology 2021 Environment & Ecology 2020 Environment & Ecology 2019 Environment & Ecology 2018 Environment & Ecology 2017 Environment & Ecology 2016 Environment & Ecology 2015

More IAS Environment & Ecology questions

Consider the following statements about Rhynchostylis retusa (Foxtail orchid): 1. It is an epiphytic orchid. 2. The species is endemic to North-east India. 3. It is the State flower of Arunachal Pradesh and Assam. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

2026medium

Which of the following best explain(s) the rationale for protecting mangrove ecosystems in the context of climate resilience? 1. Mangroves reduce tidal energy and store freshwater, making them ideal sites for paddy cultivation in saline estuarine belts. 2. Their salt-sensitive roots filter seawater, making mangroves key to converting coastal land into freshwater aquaculture zones. 3. By withstanding tidal surges and offering biomass resources, mangroves function both as natural bio-shields and livelihood bases for rural communities. Select the answer using the code given below :

2026medium

Which of the following statements with regard to the arrival of Amur Falcons at Doyang Lake in Nagaland each year from Mongolia is/are correct? 1. It showcases how sustained local conservation efforts can contribute to the arrival and protection of international migratory birds. 2. It reflects the global success of advanced tracking technologies that guide migratory birds back to their stopover sites. 3. It confirms that Amur Falcons have adapted to permanent residency in India due to favourable habitat changes. Select the answer using the code given below :

2026medium

Which one of the following is the first Plan Vivo certified Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation (REDD+) project in India?

2026medium

With respect to the Western Hoolock Gibbons, which of the following statements is/are correct? 1. A Sanctuary in North-east India is home to this ape species listed as Endangered in the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List. 2. They have specialized brachiation and can easily swing between trees. 3. They possess a strong and heavy build like gorillas, yet are remarkably agile tree climbers. Select the answer using the code given below :

2026medium

View all Environment & Ecology questions

Keep practicing Environment & Ecology

Work through every IAS Environment & Ecology PYQ, year by year.

Browse all Environment & Ecology topics