Deserts aren't home to many plants. Those that live in such dry, hot environments need special adaptations to survive and thrive. Many species of cacti do just that! Readers of this beautifully designed book explore the ways cacti conserve water in their habitat, the features that make them similar to and different from other plants, and the reasons they're such vital parts of their ecosystems. Full-color photographs, interesting fact boxes, and a graphic organizer give budding botanists the most essential information, content that supports the elementary life-science curriculum.