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Question

Angiosperms (flowering plants) are the largest Phylum in the Plant Kingdom (Angiospermophyta is also called Anthophyta or Magnoliophyta). These plants have true roots, stems, leaves and flowers. The roots grow into the soil to anchor the plant in place and take up water and nutrients. The leaves are above ground and act as the main organs for photosynthesis. Stems provide above ground support for the plant and operate as conduits to move nutrients and water throughout the plant. Flowers contain the male and female reproductive organs of the plant.

With these anatomical features in mind, do some research to find an angiosperm that has modified leaves, stems, roots or flowers that do not function in the normal manner, or that function in an unusual manner. Example: A California Barrel Cactus has spines in place of leaves to reduce water loss.

Explain how this structural modification helped the plant adapt to its environment. Make sure the plant you choose is an Angiosperm.

Answer 1

Hello M&C,

I see that there are only 7 minutes to answer your question, so I'll give you some quick responses...

A Manzanita plant has modified its leaves to orient perpendicular to the ground so that there is less surface area that directly faces the sun.  This adaptation is to reduce the loss of water vapor.

A cactus' spines are actually not in place of leaves, but leaves that have been modified; again to reduce the loss of water vapor from the plant.

The bark contained on the trunk and branches of the Palo Verde tree are green because they perform photosynthesis.  This is another adaptation to reserve water in a dry climate.

I hope this helps.

~Flower Power