Adaptive Strategies of Desert Grasses in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Adaptive strategies of dominant grasses in terms of stomatal resistance, rate of transpiration and photosynthesis, water potential of plants, and soil and water-use-efficiency were studied at 3 locations in the Kingdom. The locations chosen represented 3 different contrasting soil and climatic conditions of the regions. Results indicated that the desert plants have developed strategies to adjust stomatal behavior, rate of transpiration and water potential to cope with the harsh environment of the desert. The strategies involved appear to ensure survival of the species rather than high productivity.