1Why might it be adaptive for stomata to occur mostly (if not entirely) on the undersides of leaves? What plants show the reverse pattern for which stomata are only on the upper leaf surface?

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Steve Gallagher

Social Studies

7 September, 12:39

1Why might it be adaptive for stomata to occur mostly (if not entirely) on the undersides of leaves? What plants show the reverse pattern for which stomata are only on the upper leaf surface?

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Adolfo Campos · Answer 1

The main reason for stomata to occur on the underside of leaves is because this is the part of the plant that is shielded from the sun and more protected from the elements. As the underside receives less light, water does not evaporate as quickly, which allows for transpiration to occur.

Stomata is usually found only on the upper epidermis in plants with floating leaves. These are known as epistomatous or hyperstomatous. Moreover, plants with submerged leaved may lack stomata entirely.