xerophilies
/zɪˈrɑfəˌliz/
noun
- Plural form of xerophily; adaptations or traits that help organisms survive in dry environments.
- Scientists cataloged the xerophilies of various cacti to understand their evolution.
- The xerophilies of desert plants include thick cuticles and reduced leaf surfaces.
- These xerophilies allow the shrubs to flourish where other plants cannot.