8. Cuticle layer of a plant

     This leaf, like all leaves, can depict the cuticle layer of a plant. The cuticle is the outermost, protective layer of the leaf, covering the plant organs. It is waxy and hydrophobic, allowing it to protect the plant by minimizing water loss and defending it from harmful pathogens. This picture shows an up-close shot of the leaf, where the smooth, waxy cuticle covering is exemplified.