Adaptations to high wind velocity

The mechanical force of the wind and the grinding action of sand, dust, snow and other materials driven by it cause the plants to adapt themselves if they have to survive. Wind alone can influence the growth of plants in exposed regions. mnks of trees often bend along the direction of the wind to prevent damage by high velocity winds on exposed mountain sides.

In the deserts where the strong winds carry fine grit and sand, only plants like the cacti which have a thick cuticle can protect themselves from the abrasive action of the sand. If you have seen a coconut palm or any other palm tree, you would have noticed that the leaves are serrated and torn. This is again an adaptation to withstand the high wind velocity so that the leaves do not get broken and damaged .

In the high mountain ranges of the northern latitudes, the plants species often form cushions and mats that can withstand buffeting from strong winds that sweep the mountains. For instance, Rhododendron a kind of plant is found in the plains as well as high up in the Himalayis. In the plains it grows into a shrub while at high altitudes it is stunted and almost creeps along tle ground.