Consider the following statements regarding the root systems of desert plants: 1. Some desert plants have roots that grow very deep into the soil. 2. Their roots are always confined to the topsoil layer. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Correct Option The correct option is (a) 1 only. Explanation Desert plants, scientifically known as xerophytes, have evolved specific morphological and physiological adaptations to survive in arid environments with scarce water availability. These adaptations primarily focus on maximizing water absorption and minimizing water loss (transpiration). Statement-wise Analysis - Statement 1 is Correct: Many desert plants develop extensive and deep root systems to access water sources located far below the surface. These plants, often called phreatophytes, have long taproots that penetrate deep into the soil to reach the water table. For example, the roots of the Mesquite tree can grow down to 80 feet or more. - Statement 2 is Incorrect: While some desert plants (like cacti) do have shallow, widespread root systems to absorb rapid surface runoff from rare rainfall, it is factually incorrect to state that their roots are always confined to the topsoil. Many species rely on deep taproots. Therefore, the root systems vary based on the specific adaptation strategy of the species. Key Takeaway Xerophytic adaptations regarding roots are diverse: some species utilize deep taproots to tap into groundwater, while others use shallow, spreading roots to capture surface moisture quickly.

NCERT Class 6 Science — Chapter 4: The living organisms - characteristics and habitats

mcqeasy

Consider the following statements regarding the root systems of desert plants:

Some desert plants have roots that grow very deep into the soil.
Their roots are always confined to the topsoil layer.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Official previous-year question

Verified 1 Aug 2026.

Options

A1 only
B2 only
CBoth 1 and 2
DNeither 1 nor 2

Did you get this right?

Solution

Correct Option

The correct option is (a) 1 only.

Explanation

Desert plants, scientifically known as xerophytes, have evolved specific morphological and physiological adaptations to survive in arid environments with scarce water availability. These adaptations primarily focus on maximizing water absorption and minimizing water loss (transpiration).

Statement-wise Analysis

Statement 1 is Correct: Many desert plants develop extensive and deep root systems to access water sources located far below the surface. These plants, often called phreatophytes, have long taproots that penetrate deep into the soil to reach the water table. For example, the roots of the Mesquite tree can grow down to 80 feet or more.
Statement 2 is Incorrect: While some desert plants (like cacti) do have shallow, widespread root systems to absorb rapid surface runoff from rare rainfall, it is factually incorrect to state that their roots are always confined to the topsoil. Many species rely on deep taproots. Therefore, the root systems vary based on the specific adaptation strategy of the species.

Key Takeaway

Xerophytic adaptations regarding roots are diverse: some species utilize deep taproots to tap into groundwater, while others use shallow, spreading roots to capture surface moisture quickly.

Your note

More from Chapter 4: The living organisms - characteristics and habitats

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With reference to the germination of seeds, consider the following statements based on abiotic factors: 1. Seeds can germinate in the complete absence of air and water. 2. Light and heat are abiotic factors that influence the growth of plants. 3. Abiotic factors are important for all living organisms. Which of the statements given above are correct?

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Consider the following specific features of a camel that help it survive in desert conditions: 1. They excrete a small amount of urine to conserve water. 2. They sweat profusely to keep their bodies cool. 3. They have very short legs to keep their bodies close to the ground. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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Correct Option

The correct option is (a) 1 only.

Explanation

Statement-wise Analysis

Statement 1 is Correct: Many desert plants develop extensive and deep root systems to access water sources located far below the surface. These plants, often called phreatophytes, have long taproots that penetrate deep into the soil to reach the water table. For example, the roots of the Mesquite tree can grow down to 80 feet or more.
Statement 2 is Incorrect: While some desert plants (like cacti) do have shallow, widespread root systems to absorb rapid surface runoff from rare rainfall, it is factually incorrect to state that their roots are always confined to the topsoil. Many species rely on deep taproots. Therefore, the root systems vary based on the specific adaptation strategy of the species.