What is the process of CAM photosynthesis using native plants as examples of the process in action?

nighttime represents the lowest evaporation rate in many dry climates, so CAM plants open their stomata to exchange gases at night in order to minimizewater loss. They close their stomata during the day and metabolize the stockpiled carbon reserve performing photosynthesis.

The specialized leaf tissues are detrimental in most climates, as their complexity requires a significant investment of energy and reduced rates of photosynthesis (ie. slow to grow, can't complete with C3). Only climates where water plays a significant limiting factor does the benefit of CAM outweigh to cost.

Some plants, particularly those found in arid environments, use a carbon fixation pathway called CAM (Crassulacean Acid Metabolism) photosynthesis to minimize water loss. During the day, stomata remain closed to reduce water loss through transpiration. At night, stomata open to allow CO2 to enter and be fixed into organic acids, which are stored in vacuoles. During the day, these stored organic acids are broken down to release CO2 for use in the Calvin cycle, which takes place in the chloroplasts, allowing photosynthesis to continue. Cacti, succulents, and some types of orchids are examples of native plants that use CAM photosynthesis.