Introduction

Plants and animals are two different forms of life that exist on earth, and they have distinct differences in their physical characteristics and biological processes. One of the significant differences between plants and animals is their requirement for water. While both need water to survive, plants need more water than animals. This article explores the reasons why plants require more water than animals do.

Reasons why plants need more water than animals

Plants are primarily composed of water, with most having water content ranging from 80-90%. This high water content helps in the regulation of the plant's internal temperature through the process of transpiration. Since plants cannot control their internal temperature like animals, they depend on transpiration to regulate their temperature, and this process requires a lot of water.

Additionally, plants use water for photosynthesis, a process that converts sunlight into energy. During photosynthesis, the plant absorbs water through its roots and then undergoes a series of biochemical reactions, leading to the production of glucose and oxygen. The amount of glucose and oxygen produced by the plant is directly proportional to the amount of water consumed. Therefore, plants require more water to produce enough energy for their survival.

Another reason why plants need more water than animals is their inability to excrete waste. Unlike animals, plants do not have an excretory system that removes waste products from their body. Instead, they rely on water to transport waste products out of their body. The absence of an excretory system increases the need for water in plants, making them require more water than animals.

Other factors that influence the amount of water plants need

In addition to the reasons mentioned above, several other factors influence the amount of water plants need. These factors include the climate, soil type, and the stage of growth of the plant. A plant growing in a hot and dry environment will require much more water to compensate for the loss of water through transpiration. On the other hand, a plant growing in a wet environment may require less water since the soil already has a high water content.

Similarly, different soil types have varying water holding capacity, with sandy soil having a lower holding capacity and clay soil having a higher capacity. The stage of growth of the plant also influences its water requirement, with young plants requiring more water than mature plants.

The importance of water to plants and animals

Water is a vital resource for both plants and animals, and its availability is crucial for the survival of all living organisms. Water plays a critical role in maintaining the internal temperature of organisms, transporting nutrients, and removing waste products from the body. In addition, a sufficient supply of water is necessary for the growth and reproduction of both plants and animals.

Conclusion

In conclusion, plants require more water than animals due to their high water content, dependence on water for transpiration and photosynthesis, and lack of an excretory system. Several other factors also have an impact on the amount of water plants require, including climate, soil type, and stage of growth. Understanding why plants need more water than animals can help us appreciate the importance of water in the ecosystem and the need to conserve and protect this vital resource.