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Questions and Answers
What is a characteristic of cacti that allows them to store water?
What is a characteristic of cacti that allows them to store water?
Which type of cactus is characterized by round, flat stems with small spines?
Which type of cactus is characterized by round, flat stems with small spines?
What is a function of the spines in cacti?
What is a function of the spines in cacti?
Which of the following is an adaptation of cacti to conserve water?
Which of the following is an adaptation of cacti to conserve water?
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Where are cacti native to?
Where are cacti native to?
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What type of soil do cacti often grow in?
What type of soil do cacti often grow in?
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What is one use of cacti?
What is one use of cacti?
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What is a unique feature of Mammillaria cacti?
What is a unique feature of Mammillaria cacti?
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Study Notes
Characteristics
- Cacti are a type of succulent plant that stores water in their stems
- They have thick, waxy stems that can expand to store water
- Typically have sharp, protective spines instead of leaves
- Spines can be modified leaves or branches that reduce water loss
Types of Cacti
- Opuntia: Prickly pear cacti, characterized by round, flat stems with small spines
- Cereus: Columnar cacti, often growing tall and slender
- Mammillaria: Globular cacti, with short, fine spines and vibrant flowers
- Echinocactus: Barrel cacti, with short, stout stems and prominent ribs
Adaptations
- Deep roots: Allow cacti to access water deep in the soil
- Waxy stems: Prevent water loss through transpiration
- CAM photosynthesis: Open their stomata at night, storing water and reducing water loss
- Drought tolerance: Can survive for extended periods without water
Distribution and Habitat
- Native to the Americas, from British Columbia to southern South America
- Found in dry, sunny areas, such as deserts and dry forests
- Often grow in rocky, well-draining soil
Uses
- Ornamental plants: Grown for their unique shapes and vibrant flowers
- Food source: Some species, like Opuntia, have edible fruits and stems
- Medicinal uses: Some species have been used to treat wounds and reduce inflammation
Characteristics of Cacti
- Cacti are a type of succulent plant that stores water in their stems
- They have thick, waxy stems that can expand to store water
- Typically have sharp, protective spines instead of leaves
- Spines can be modified leaves or branches that reduce water loss
Types of Cacti
- Opuntia: Characterized by round, flat stems with small spines, also known as Prickly pear cacti
- Cereus: Columnar cacti, often growing tall and slender
- Mammillaria: Globular cacti, with short, fine spines and vibrant flowers
- Echinocactus: Barrel cacti, with short, stout stems and prominent ribs
Adaptations of Cacti
- Deep roots allow cacti to access water deep in the soil
- Waxy stems prevent water loss through transpiration
- CAM photosynthesis enables cacti to open their stomata at night, storing water and reducing water loss
- Drought tolerance enables cacti to survive for extended periods without water
Distribution and Habitat of Cacti
- Native to the Americas, from British Columbia to southern South America
- Found in dry, sunny areas, such as deserts and dry forests
- Often grow in rocky, well-draining soil
Uses of Cacti
- Ornamental plants: Grown for their unique shapes and vibrant flowers
- Food source: Some species, like Opuntia, have edible fruits and stems
- Medicinal uses: Some species have been used to treat wounds and reduce inflammation
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Description
Learn about the unique features and types of cacti, including their water-storing stems and protective spines. Discover different types like Opuntia, Cereus, and Mammillaria.
