If plants in a dry region have waxy surface, thorns and deep roots, this is a response to which environmental pressure?

Correct answer: Water shortage and risk of transpiration

The direct answer is A: waxy surfaces, thorns, and deep roots are adaptations to water shortage and the risk of excessive transpiration. In dry regions, rainfall is limited and water is lost easily. A waxy coating reduces evaporation from leaves; thorns often replace broad leaves and reduce exposed area, while also discouraging herbivores; deep roots reach water stored farther below the surface. Step by step: dry climate creates water stress; the plant reduces water loss or finds deeper water; these inherited structural features improve survival. Option A is correct. B is wrong because permanent waterlogging requires adaptations to excess water, not deep drought roots. C is wrong because tides and salt mainly describe coastal or saline environments, not this full combination. D is wrong because dense-shade plants usually adapt to low light, not drought. Memory cue: wax, thorns, deep roots—save water and seek water.