Why would a deciduous tree living in a tropical latitude need to drop its leaves?

A deciduous tree in a tropical latitude may drop its leaves to conserve water during the dry season, which can occur even in tropical regions. Shedding leaves helps reduce transpiration and minimizes water loss when resources are scarce. Additionally, dropping leaves can allow the tree to conserve energy and redirect resources to growth or reproduction during more favorable conditions. This adaptation helps the tree survive and thrive in a variable environment.