Cacti

What is one key adaptation of cacti for survival in the desert?

• Thin stem structure

• Highly modified spines

• Large surface area of leaves

• Bright flower colors

Which substance limits water loss in cacti by coating their thick skin?

• Chlorophyll

• Gluey substance

• Wax cuticle

• Mucilage

How do cacti take advantage of available water after a rain?

• By closing their stomata

• By increasing water loss

• By growing lateral roots

• By wilting their stems

What is the primary function of the taproot in a Saguaro cactus?

• To attract insects

• To provide shade

• To store water

• To anchor the plant

Which cactus can grow up to 20 meters tall and live for up to 200 years in the Sonoran Desert?

• Melon Cactus

• Prickly Pear

• Mistletoe Cactus

• Saguaro Cactus

What is the function of the mucilage in a cactus plant?

• To exchange gases

• To store water

• To reflect sunlight

• To prevent water evaporation

How do cacti in the desert reduce water loss during the day?

• By opening stomata

• By increasing surface area

• By wilting leaves

• By shading with spines

What is the primary function of the spines on a cactus plant?

• To store water

• To limit water loss

• To provide shade

• To attract pollinators

Which cactus grows on limestone soils in seasonally dry tropical forests?

• Mistletoe Cactus

• Saguaro Cactus

• Prickly Pear

• Melon Cactus

What is the role of the lateral roots in a cactus after a rain?

• To take up available water

• To anchor the plant

• To spread out laterally

• To dry up quickly