Plant Adaptation

Why might some plants that grow on the shady rainforest floor have large leaves?

• to stay safe from predators

• to attract different animals

• to survive harsh winters with heavy snowfall

• to take in as much sunlight as possible

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What is one reason why some plants have scents?

• to shed extra water off the plant

• to take in nutrients from the soil

• to attract animals to spread its pollen

• to conserve water during dry periods

The rose of Jericho grows in dry areas. It curls up and lays DORMANT until there is enough water. What does DORMANT mean?

• flowering

• not active

• dead

• dried

Some trees shed their leaves in time for winter. How is this adaption useful?

• The trees save energy during the darker, colder months.

• The trees take in more sunlight through their branches.

• The trees attract animals to spread their seeds.

• The trees blend into their environment and hide.

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What is one possible reason for seeds to have hooks or barbs?

• so they stay warm during the winter

• so they protect themselves from sunlight

• so they get attached to passing animals and get carried away

• so they can stick to animals and steal nutrients from them

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The roots of cacti are usually shallow and spread out widely. How does this adaptation help the plants?

• The roots can take in more sunlight to grow faster.

• The roots can get up to the surface faster to get air.

• The roots can collect water quickly when it rains.

• The roots can spread pollen faster and reproduce.

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Which adaptation of a rose helps it grow without being eaten by large animals?

• flowers with bright colors

• sharp thorns

• small seeds

• deep roots

To protect themselves from being eaten, plants may develop special adaptations to keep animals away. What is one of these adaptations.

• berries

• thorns

• vines

• fruit

Plants have different needs depending on where they live. In what kind of environment would you find a plant that has an adaptation that allows it to store water?

• rainforest

• grasslands

• tundra

• desert

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Some plants rely on insects and birds to help them pollinate and reproduce. What adaptation would help a plant attract more insects?

• bright flowers

• green leaves

• sharp thorns

• tall stem

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