Which condition causes a plant to have reduced leaves and pale coloration?

The condition that leads to reduced leaves and pale coloration in a plant is etiolation. Etiolation occurs when a plant is grown in insufficient light conditions. In response to low light availability, the plant exhibits several adaptations, including elongated stems, reduced leaf size, and a pale or yellowish color due to insufficient chlorophyll production. The plant's growth strategy in this scenario is to reach towards a light source to enhance photosynthesis.

In contrast, overwatering can lead to root rot or other water-related stresses but does not specifically cause the characteristics of reduced leaf size and pale coloration. Fertilizer deficiency might lead to discoloration and stunted growth, but it typically involves a broader range of symptoms and does not necessarily lead to the specific combination seen in etiolation. Soil saturation refers to waterlogged conditions that can also harm plant health but again does not directly cause the specific symptoms associated with etiolation.