The waxy, water-resistant layer secreted by epidermal cells on aerial parts of plants is known as the cuticle. Its significance lies in reducing water loss through transpiration. The cuticle acts as a protective barrier, preventing excessive evaporation of water from the plant’s surface while still allowing essential gas exchange. This adaptation is crucial for plants in arid or dry environments, where water availability is limited. The cuticle helps plants conserve water, maintain turgor pressure, and survive in conditions where dehydration is a significant threat. It is a key feature in the plant’s adaptation to various ecological settings.