How do cactus adapt to the cold desert at night?
A cactus is a unique plant that is commonly found growing in a desert habitat. It belongs to the family Cactaceae. Cacti are equipped with many adaptations that suit them for the desert life. Instead of leaves, from which water escapes easily, this magnificent plant has spines, which greatly narrow down water evaporation. The spines also protect the cactus from hungry predators such as birds. A cactus has short roots, which also minimize evaporation. A cactus is a vascular plant, meaning it can support itself while growing to amazing heights. The saguaro cactus can grow unto an astonishing 45ft. Probably the most amazing fact about this plant is that even in its harsh climate some cacti can survive over 200 years! These adaptations allow certain cacti to survive 3 years without water; a human can barely survive 4 days.
