What do cuticles do for land plants that was not necessary for ancestors that lived in water?

Question

Cuticles allow them to grow bigger and taller.
Cuticles help them transport water.
Cuticles help prevent water loss.
Cuticles allow the performance of photosynthesis.

Answer 1

Cuticles help prevent water loss.

In land plants, the cuticle is a protective layer that covers the surface of leaves and stems, preventing excessive evaporation of water. This adaptation was necessary for terrestrial plants to thrive in a drier environment, as their aquatic ancestors did not need such a structure to retain moisture.