Question

The percentage of cuticular transpiration in plants is approximately ______.

Options

• 10%

• 20%

• 25%

• 30%

Answer 1

The percentage of cuticular transpiration in plants is approximately 10%.

Explanation:

Cuticular transpiration is the loss of water vapour directly through the cuticle, which is the waxy protective layer covering the epidermis of leaves and stems. In most standard terrestrial plants, this process is relatively minor and accounts for roughly 5% to 10% of the total water lost by the plant. Since the cuticle’s primary function is to prevent dehydration, it restricts water vapour loss, leaving the vast majority of transpiration (around 85-90%) to happen through the stomata instead.