David Attenborough himself takes us through the fascinating – and often surprising – life cycle of desert plants. From their incredible tenacious qualities to their long lives, they’re a little like Sir David himself!
A xerophyte (or desert plant) is a species of plant that has adaptations to survive in an environment with little liquid water, such as a desert or an ice- or snow-covered region in the Alps or the Arctic. Popular examples of xerophytes are cacti, pineapple and some Gymnosperm plants.
The structural features (morphology) and fundamental chemical processes (physiology) of xerophytes are variously adapted to conserve water, also common to store large quantities of water, during dry periods. Other species are able to survive long periods of extreme dryness or desiccation of their tissues, during which their metabolic activity may effectively shut down. Plants with such morphological and physiological adaptations are xeromorphic. Xerophytes such as cacti are capable of withstanding extended periods of dry conditions as they have deep-spreading roots and capacity to store water. Their waxy, thorny leaves prevent loss of moisture. Even their fleshy stems can store water.
From Kingdom of Plants Season 1 Episode 3, “Solving the Secrets”: this series, narrated and presented by Sir David Attenborough, documents the world of plants, from the strangest to the most beautiful. Plus, a look at how plants change their biology to adapt to the changing seasons, and ensure their survival.
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There is a quiet revolution happening across the vast content of Africa. Imports of solar PV panels jumped 60% in the 12 months to June 2025. Millions of microgrids and individual solar installations are now driving the electrification of just about every African nation. But fossil fuels still dominate most existing utility scale grids. So, can the people of Africa by pass the centralised monopolies and drive their own renewable prosperity. Because if they can, they might just save all of us!
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The great debate between microplastic shedding plastic cutting boards and bacteria harboring wooden cutting boards started with peer-reviewed science. We’ll explore that research along with what scientists know about alternative cutting board materials to determine the most food safe option.
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