Adaptations of plants

Question 1

Definition of xerophytes

Answer 1

plants which have adapted to live in areas where water is scarce

Question 2

What are 2 examples of xerophytes?

Answer 2

cacti and Marram grass

Question 3

Adaptation of spines on cacti

Answer 3

-spines reduce SA:V ratio which reduces water loss
-spines trap moist air, which reduces the rate of transpiration

Question 4

Adaptations of stomata in cacti

Answer 4

-sunken stomata trap layer of moist air, which reduces transpiration
-cacti open stomata at night to reduce water loss via photosynthesis

Question 5

3 other adaptations of cacti

Answer 5

-thick waxy cuticle to reduce evaporation
-extensive roots to absorb water after a rain shower and access lower levels of soil
-cacti can store water in their stem

Question 6

Adaptations of stomata in Marram grass

Answer 6

-sunken stomata with fine air projecting inwards means moist air is trapped which reduces diffusion
-leaves roll into tube with stomata on inside so moist air is trapped which reduces transpiration

Question 7

2 other adaptations of Marram grass

Answer 7

-extensive roots to find water
-thick waxy cuticle which reduces evaporation

Question 8

Definition of hydrophytes

Answer 8

plants that are adapted to live in the water

Question 9

What struggle do hydrophytes face?

Answer 9

low oxygen levels

Question 10

3 adaptations of hydrophytes

Answer 10

-air spaces help plant to float and can act as oxygen store
-stomata on top surface of plant to maximise gas exchange
-flexible leaves and stems to prevent water damage