Leaves are the main "organs" of plants responsible for capturing light energy, and converting it through fixation of carbon dioxide into chemical energy in the form of sugars. In this lecture we look at modified leaves that serve as adaptations to lack or excess of water, lack of nutrients, and as protective structures to prevent herbivory. We also take a look at the structural organisation of a "typical" leaf. Copyright 2012 La Trobe University, all rights reserved. Contact for permissions.