Plants and animals of the Desert

All cacti are:

• Succulents

• Trees

• Grasses

• Ferns

What happens to the soil in the desert after rain?

• It dries rapidly under an intense sun

• It stays wet for weeks

• It becomes muddy for months

• It freezes

Why are the water-absorbing roots of succulents mostly near the soil surface?

• To quickly absorb water from brief rains

• To avoid sunlight

• To anchor the plant deeply

• To store food

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What makes the stems and leaves nearly waterproof?

• Waxy cuticles

• Stomata

• Chloroplasts

• Deep roots

What is transpiration in plants?

• The releasing of water vapor from the plant

• The absorption of sunlight by leaves

• The growth of roots underground

• The production of seeds

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Which of the following is NOT a way succulents conserve water?

• Having many large leaves

• Having few leaves

• Having no leaves

• Having deciduous leaves

What is the point of forming a cocoon for the bullfrog?

• To attract mates

• To hold in the body’s moisture and absorb water

• To help it fly

• To make it colorful

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When the rains arrive, what are the two things the African bullfrog returns to do?

• Sleep and hide

• Feed and breed

• Swim and jump

• Hunt and sleep

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Which desert is the coldest where Jerboas live?

• Sahara

• Mojave

• Gobi

• Sonoran

Which of the following best describes the Jerboa’s legs?

• Short and weak

• Well-built hind legs for digging

• Webbed for swimming

• Covered in fur for warmth