What term describes plants that are able to store water in their tissues, making them drought-resistant?

The term that describes plants capable of storing water in their tissues, which enables them to survive in arid environments, is "xerophytes." These plants have specialized adaptations that help them conserve water, and they often thrive in dry, desert-like conditions.

Xerophytes may have features such as thick, fleshy leaves or stems, reduced leaf surface area, or a waxy coating that minimizes water loss through transpiration. Cacti and succulents are common examples of xerophytes, demonstrating their ability to endure long periods without water.

In contrast, the other terms refer to different characteristics of plants. Deciduous plants shed their leaves seasonally, typically in response to changing environmental conditions, but they do not necessarily store water. Hydrophytes are plants adapted to living in aquatic environments and typically require abundant water rather than storing it. Perennials are plants that live for multiple growing seasons, which may include both drought-resistant and non-drought-resistant species. Thus, while the other options focus on various aspects of plant biology, xerophytes specifically highlight the ability to store water, making them distinctly suited for drought resistance.