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What is the primary function of the cactus's spines in its adaptation to the desert environment?
  • a)
    To store water
  • b)
    To reduce water loss
  • c)
    To protect against herbivores
  • d)
    To perform photosynthesis
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?
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What is the primary function of the cactus's spines in its adaptation ...
Understanding Cactus Adaptations
Cacti are remarkable plants that have evolved various adaptations to thrive in harsh desert environments. One of the most distinctive features of cacti is their spines.
Function of Spines
- Water Conservation: The primary function of cactus spines is to reduce water loss. In desert conditions, water is scarce, and cacti have developed adaptations to minimize evaporation.
How Spines Help
- Shade: Cactus spines provide shade to the plant's surface, which helps lower temperatures and reduce the rate of transpiration (water loss through evaporation).
- Wind Reduction: Spines can break up air movement around the cactus, creating a microenvironment with higher humidity near the plant. This further reduces water loss.
Additional Functions
While the main purpose of spines is to conserve water, they also serve other roles:
- Protection Against Herbivores: Spines deter animals that might want to eat the cactus. This is a critical survival strategy in environments where food is limited.
- Limited Photosynthesis: Unlike leaves, spines do not perform photosynthesis. Instead, cacti typically rely on their green stems for this process, which is another adaptation to minimize water loss.
In summary, while cacti have spines that offer multiple advantages, their primary role is to significantly reduce water loss, which is essential for survival in arid environments.
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What is the primary function of the cactus's spines in its adaptation ...
The primary function of the cactus's spines is to reduce water loss. In the desert environment, where water is scarce, cactus plants have adapted by modifying their leaves into spines. This adaptation minimizes the surface area from which water can evaporate, helping the plant conserve moisture. The cactus's thick, waxy stem and deep roots also contribute to its ability to survive in arid conditions.
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What is the primary function of the cactus's spines in its adaptation to the desert environment?a)To store waterb)To reduce water lossc)To protect against herbivoresd)To perform photosynthesisCorrect answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?
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