Drought Responses & Ecohydrology

A collection of vocabulary flashcards focusing on key terms related to drought responses and ecohydrology.

Physiological Effects

Stomatal closure leading to reduced gas exchange and non-stomatal effects on photosynthesis.

Xerophytes

Plants adapted to dry (xeric) environments with limited water.

Drought escape

A strategy where plants complete their life cycle before the onset of drought.

Drought avoidance

Mechanisms that prevent tissue desiccation or low water potentials.

Drought tolerance

Mechanisms that enable physiological activity to persist at low water potentials.

Osmoregulation

Accumulation of compounds to lower osmotic potential and maintain turgor.

Water Use Efficiency (WUE)

The ratio of photosynthesis to transpiration; higher WUE indicates better water conservation.

Phreatophytes

Plants with deep root systems that tap into groundwater.

Stomatal crypts

Features in some plants that help reduce water loss by concealing stomata.

Deforestation impact on water cycle

Reduces rainfall through less efficient moisture recycling.