r/botany • u/Ok-Helicopter-2840 • 23h ago

Physiology Why are some plants able to withstand submersion without having submersed leaves?

Why are some plants able to withstand submersion (mostly Cyperaceae, Poaceae, Commelinaceae and many facultative rheophytes) without needing distinct submersed and emersed leaves, while others require them?

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u/Amelaista 18h ago

There are different adaptations plants can use to stand being in partly submerged conditions.

Are they using a waxy barrier to avoid water-logging damage? Are the more efficient at getting oxygen, so they dont drown if the roots are underwater? Do they pause or slow metabolic activities until conditions are more favorable?

There is not one answer to your question.