1. Reduced cuticle: Hydrophytes have a thin or absent cuticle on their leaves to allow for easier gas exchange with the surrounding water.
2. Stomata on upper leaf surface: Some hydrophytes have stomata on the upper surface of their leaves to facilitate gas exchange in submerged conditions.
3. Air-filled spaces: Many hydrophytes have air-filled spaces in their tissues to provide buoyancy and allow for gas exchange with the surrounding water.
4. Reduced root system: Hydrophytes often have reduced root systems or specialized root structures to absorb nutrients and water from the aquatic environment.
5. Flexible stems and leaves: Hydrophytes have flexible stems and leaves to withstand the movement of water and prevent damage from currents.
6. Reduced lignin content: Hydrophytes have lower lignin content in their cell walls to maintain flexibility and prevent waterlogging.
7. Increased chlorophyll content: Hydrophytes often have higher chlorophyll content to maximize photosynthesis in low-light underwater environments.
8. Specialized reproductive structures: Some hydrophytes have specialized reproductive structures, such as floating flowers or seeds, to ensure successful reproduction in aquatic habitats.
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Google Gemini AI
Sep 26
1. Large air spaces (aerenchyma): Spongy tissue in stems and leaves that stores air for buoyancy and oxygen diffusion. 2. Pneumatophores: Specialized roots that extend above the water surface for gas exchange. 3. Floating leaves: Broad, flat leaves that float on the water's surface to maximize sunlight absorption. 4. Submerged leaves: Thin, translucent leaves that are adapted for efficient photosynthesis in low-light conditions. 5. Stomata: Specialized pores on leaves that allow gas exchange even when submerged. 6. Weak root systems: Due to lack of soil support, hydrophytes develop shallow or floating root systems for anchorage. 7. Flexible stems: Stems with weak cell walls that allow them to bend and sway in water currents. 8. High surface area-to-volume ratio: Aerating tissues and floating organs increase the surface area for efficient nutrient and oxygen absorption.