Answer the following:
$(i)$ How is the epidermis of plants living in very dry habitats adapted?
$(ii)$ Write the functions of guard cells of stomata in the leaf.

(N/A) $(i)$ In very dry habitats,the epidermis is often thicker to provide protection against water loss. Additionally,the aerial parts of these plants often secrete a waxy,water-resistant layer (cuticle) on the outer surface to protect against water loss,mechanical injury,and invasion by parasitic fungi.
$(ii)$ The primary functions of guard cells are:
$1.$ To regulate the opening and closing of stomata.
$2.$ To facilitate the exchange of gases (like $CO_2$ and $O_2$) between the plant and the atmosphere.
$3.$ To control transpiration by regulating water vapor loss.