Question

Why should gymnosperms (pine) show xeric adaptation when they grow in higher altitudes ?

Answer 1

Gymnosperms show(pine) show xeric adaptations because inspite of high rainfall at higher altitude, water that is retained in vicinity of roots remains deficient because of slope.

Explanation:

Gymnosperms grow at higher altitude. The water retained by roots is less because these grow along slopes in mountains. At higher altitude the intensity of light is very high, that increase the rate of transpiration. Thus, these plants have adaptations to conserve water.

These plants have xeric adaptations like needle-like leaves, thick cuticle , sunken stomata to reduce the rate of transpiration.