Plants in Extreme Environments

Plants have developed various adaptations to survive in extreme environments. The quiver tree in southern Africa uses salt to reflect sunlight and stay cool. The sawaro cactus stores water in its stem and uses spikes for protection. In polar regions, plants grow low to the ground to conserve heat and use shallow roots. The Arctic poppy tracks the sun to maximize photosynthesis and attract pollinators. These adaptations help plants regulate temperature, conserve water, and capture sunlight effectively.

What adaptation helps the quiver tree survive in the desert?

• It stores water in its leaves.

• It grows deep roots to access underground water.

• It has thick bark to retain moisture.

• It excretes a white powder to reflect sunlight.

How does the sawaro cactus manage to store water?

• By growing long roots.

• By swelling its stem during heavy rains.

• By having a thick outer layer.

• By closing its stomata during the day.

What is the primary defense mechanism of the sawaro cactus against desert animals?

• It releases a toxic substance.

• It has thick spikes.

• It camouflages with the surroundings.

• It grows in clusters.

How do Arctic plants survive extremely low temperatures?

• By storing heat in their leaves.

• By growing low to the ground and close together.

• By having deep root systems.

• By growing tall to catch more sunlight.

What unique feature does the Arctic poppy have to aid in pollination?

• It emits a strong fragrance.

• It changes color to attract insects.

• It rotates to follow the sun.

• It produces large seeds.