Chapter 3, Problem 38A

Summary Introduction

To determine:

The adaptation of LMA leaves for dry conditions.

Introduction:

Leaves having more leaf mass per area are thick and spongy. They have less mineral content and more lipid content, which makes them thick and small.

Explanation of Solution

In LMA leaves have more leave mass per area and they are rich in lipid. Lipid being hydrophobic in nature does not allow the passage of the water through them easily. This helps in the conservation of the water that can be transferred through the process of transpiration. Hence, they are adapted to dry conditions.

The mineral and other constituent makes the leaf lose more water. When in dry conditions these leaves would become deprived of water easily and when the condition become, they have to regrow. However, in the tropical rain forest there is no dry condition, so, the investment in the lipids would not be beneficial.