crassulacean acid metabolism

Crassulacean acid metabolism (CAM) is an adaptation that some plants use to conserve water in dry environments. These plants open their stomata (tiny pores) at night to take in carbon dioxide (CO₂) and store it as organic acids. During the day, they close their stomata to reduce water loss and use the stored acids to perform photosynthesis, producing energy. This unique process allows CAM plants, like cacti and succulents, to thrive in arid conditions by balancing the need for CO₂ with water conservation.