Phreatophytes are xerophytes with roots

Options

A. Spread along the soil surface
B. Well spread in the soil
C. Very deep reaching ground water fringe
D. Very deep but well above ground water.

Answer

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Phreatophytes**:
- Phreatophytes are a type of xerophyte, which are plants adapted to dry environments.
- They have specialized root systems that allow them to access water from deeper soil layers.

2. **Root Structure**:
- The roots of phreatophytes are typically very deep and can reach the groundwater table.
- This enables them to obtain moisture from the phreatic zone, which is the saturated zone of soil where water is present.

3. **Phreatic Zone**:
- The phreatic zone, also known as the zone of saturation, is the area where all the spaces between soil particles are filled with water.
- Above this zone is the capillary fringe, where water is held in small pores and is available to plants.

4. **Water Supply**:
- Phreatophytes are often in contact with moisture due to their deep roots, which allows them to survive in arid conditions.
- They can also utilize surface water when available.

5. **Conclusion**:
- Given the characteristics of phreatophytes, the correct statement is that they have roots that reach very deep into the soil, allowing them to access groundwater.

### Final Answer:
Phreatophytes are xerophytes with roots that reach very deep, accessing groundwater.

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