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The sundew is a small flowering plant, growing in wet habitats such as bogs and marshes - AQA - A-Level Biology - Question 9 - 2019 - Paper 1
Question 9
The sundew is a small flowering plant, growing in wet habitats such as bogs and marshes. The soil in bogs and marshes is acidic and has very low concentrations of so... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The sundew is a small flowering plant, growing in wet habitats such as bogs and marshes - AQA - A-Level Biology - Question 9 - 2019 - Paper 1
Step 1
Describe how you could estimate the size of a population of sundews in a small marsh.
Answer
To estimate the size of a population of sundews in a small marsh, the following steps can be taken:
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Use a Grid: Divide the marsh area into smaller, manageable squares or sections using a grid system.
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Random Sampling: Obtain random coordinates within the grid squares using a random number generator or a table of random numbers.
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Count Population: For each selected grid square, count the number of sundews present. This can be done by counting all plants or by marking a specified area to get a density estimate.
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Calculate Average: Compute an average number of sundews per grid square based on the counts from multiple randomly selected squares.
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Estimate Total Population: Multiply the average number of sundews per square by the total number of squares in the marsh area to estimate the total population of sundews.
Step 2
Suggest and explain how digesting insects helps the sundew to grow in soil with very low concentrations of some nutrients.
Answer
Digesting insects provides essential nutrients to the sundew that are scarce in its acidic, nutrient-poor habitat.
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Nutrient Acquisition: Sundews are capable of producing organic compounds such as proteins which are derived from the digestion of captured insects. This process breaks down the insect's amino acids, nucleic acids, and other necessary nutrients that are crucial for the plant's growth.
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Enhanced Growth: By absorbing these nutrients directly from digested insects, sundews can thrive in their low nutrient environment. The proteins and other nutrients gained from their prey support vital functions such as growth, reproduction, and overall health.
This strategy allows sundews to supplement their diet in nutrient-deficient conditions, giving them an adaptive advantage.