Plant Adaptation in Savannah and Rainforest

Questions and Answers

Which tree is an example of flora found in the Savannah?

Acacia tree (correct)

Mangrove tree

Pine tree

Kapok tree

In which location is the Kapok tree primarily found?

Savannah

Amazon Rainforest (correct)

Desert

Wetland

The Savannah has a lack of water.

True

What is the purpose of the Acacia tree's long root?

To get water from deep underground Signup and view all the answers

How does the Acacia tree defend itself?

By producing poison and sending a smelly message. Signup and view all the answers

The root system of the Kapok tree is called __________.

Buttress roots Signup and view all the answers

What structural adaptation helps the Kapok tree withstand wind?

Hand-shaped leaves Signup and view all the answers

Match the following trees with their primary habitat:

Acacia tree = Savannah Kapok tree = Amazon Rainforest Mangrove tree = Salt Water Palm tree = Desert Pine tree = Snow Water lily = Wetland Signup and view all the answers

The Pine tree has needle leaves to prevent water loss.

True Signup and view all the answers

How do Mangrove trees adapt to wave resistance?

By having long and strong roots. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Plant Adaptation Overview

Plants adapt to diverse environmental conditions, such as savannah and rainforest ecosystems.

Savannah Forest Adaptation

Located in Southern Africa, characterized by grassland habitat.
Soil is typically soggy and muddy, affecting water availability.
Experiences mild overall temperatures with extended periods of drought (half the year without rain).
Examples include the Acacia tree.

Structural Adaptations of Acacia Tree

Roots: Long taproots extend up to 35 meters to access deep water sources.
Trunk: Designed to store water; branches are long to prevent access by most herbivores except giraffes.
Leaves: Small and sharp spines to conserve water and deter herbivory while still capturing sunlight.

Behavioral Adaptations

Produces toxic substances in leaves to deter feeding.
Emits a scent to signal nearby acacia trees to produce poison, creating a collective defense.

Amazon Rainforest Adaptation

Found in Brazil with a diverse ecosystem, rich in flora and easy access to water.
Soils are well-hydrated due to consistent rainfall throughout the year.
Example includes the Kapok tree.

Structural Adaptations of Kapok Tree

Roots: Buttress roots reach 5 meters above the soil, anchoring the tree and providing stability.
Leaves: Hand-shaped to facilitate wind passage without damage.
Seeds: Yellow seeds dispersed by wind, enhancing reproduction across the forest.

Behavioral Adaptations

Utilizes wind to attract bats to its flowers, facilitating pollination through scent signaling.

Additional Plant Adaptations in Various Habitats

Mangrove Tree:
- Habitat: Saltwater environments.
- Roots: Long and strong to withstand wave action, providing stability in coastal areas.
Water Lily:
- Habitat: Wetlands.
- Leaves: Wide floating leaves to maximize sunlight absorption.
Palm Tree:
- Habitat: Deserts.
- Roots: Thick to access water underground; small leaves minimize water loss and withstand winds.
Pine Tree:
- Habitat: Snow-covered regions.
- Shape: Triangle design allows snow to slide off easily, preventing branch breakage.
- Leaves: Needle-like to reduce water loss.
Barbary Fig:
- Habitat: Deserts.
- Spines: Sharp spines for self-defense against herbivores.

Description

This quiz explores how plants adapt to different environments like the Savannah and Amazon Rainforest. It highlights factors such as location, soil, temperature, and water availability that influence plant survival and growth. Test your knowledge on the diverse adaptations of flora in these unique habitats.