xeric

Xeric refers to environments, habitats, or organisms adapted to very dry conditions. The term comes from the Greek xeros, meaning dry, and is used in ecology, botany, and horticulture to describe climates with low and often irregular precipitation and high potential evapotranspiration. Xeric climates can be truly arid deserts or semi-arid regions where moisture is scarce for long periods; the term helps distinguish such areas from mesic (moderately moist) and hydric (wet) conditions.

In plants, xerophytes are adapted to conserve water and survive drought. Common adaptations include reduced or modified leaf surfaces, thick cuticles, sunken or reduced stomata, pubescence or waxy coatings to limit transpiration, and the ability to store water in tissues. Some species use CAM or C4 photosynthesis to improve water-use efficiency. Root systems may be deep or widespread to access scarce moisture, and deciduous or leaf-shedding strategies can further reduce water loss.

Xeric habitats are distributed worldwide, including deserts, scrublands, and Mediterranean-type ecosystems. They are typically associated with well-drained soils, such as sandy or rocky substrates, and may feature microhabitats that retain moisture, like rock crevices or shaded gullies.

Human use of xeric principles is common in landscaping and water management. Xeriscaping emphasizes drought-tolerant plant selections and efficient irrigation to minimize water use in arid or water-scarce regions.

See also: xerophyte, drought tolerance.