Crassulacean acid metabolism (CAM)

Crassulacean acid metabolism (CAM) is a specialized process some plants use to conserve water while still performing photosynthesis. Unlike most plants that open their stomata (tiny pores on leaves) during the day to take in carbon dioxide (CO₂), CAM plants open them at night to gather CO₂ when it's cooler and more humid, reducing water loss. The CO₂ is stored as organic acids overnight. During the day, the plant closes its stomata and uses the stored acids to produce energy and sugars while minimizing water loss. This adaptation helps CAM plants thrive in dry, arid environments.