Which of the following is a characteristic of legumes?

Legumes are known for their distinctive taproot systems, which enable them to access deeper layers of soil. This characteristic allows them to utilize soil moisture and nutrients that other plants with shallower root systems may not be able to reach. The taproot also helps legumes establish themselves in a variety of soil conditions, making them resilient in different environments.

In contrast, while it's true that some legumes may need significant water during certain growth phases, many can grow in drier conditions relative to grasses, which typically thrive in wetter environments. Not all legumes are perennial; many are annuals, meaning that they complete their life cycle within one year. Additionally, legumes do not necessarily prefer acidic soils; they often grow well in neutral to slightly alkaline conditions, which negatively impacts the notion of them thriving in acidic environments. Thus, the characteristic pertaining to taproots best reflects a significant and accurate feature of legumes.