Scientists show drought-tolerant crops need skin in the game 16 March 2021 The hope is that with the appropriate investment in research, applied science and practical applications, our research can help to develop drought tolerant and more water-use efficient crops. The Holy Grail of crops that can survive long heat waves and drought may be a step closer with scientists finding a way to precisely measure a plant's water loss through its skin. There are only two ways that crops and other plants lose water: through their skin, otherwise known as the cuticle, and the stomata. Until now, scientists have calculated a plant's dehydration levels based primarily on the stomata, which are pores on leaves that release water vapour and take in carbon dioxide - otherwise known as a gas exchange.