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Examine, with reference to one biome that you have studied, how plants and animals have adapted to specific climatic and soil conditions. - Leaving Cert Geography - Question 18 - 2015
Question 18
Examine, with reference to one biome that you have studied, how plants and animals have adapted to specific climatic and soil conditions.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Examine, with reference to one biome that you have studied, how plants and animals have adapted to specific climatic and soil conditions. - Leaving Cert Geography - Question 18 - 2015
Step 1
Examine adaptations of plants to climatic and soil conditions
Answer
In the desert biome, plants exhibit several adaptations to survive the harsh climatic conditions:
- Water Conservation: Plants like cacti have adapted to store water in their stems and possess a thick, waxy coating to reduce transpiration.
- Root Systems: Deep and extensive root systems allow plants to reach underground water sources. Some, like the mesquite tree, have roots that can extend over 50 feet deep.
- Leaf Modifications: Many desert plants have small or no leaves to minimize water loss. For example, the leaves of the aloe plant are reduced to spines.
These adaptations are crucial for survival in areas where rainfall is scarce and temperatures fluctuate drastically.
Step 2
Examine adaptations of animals to climatic and soil conditions
Answer
Animals in the desert biome have also developed unique adaptations:
- Thermoregulation: Many desert animals, such as the fennec fox, are nocturnal, hunting at night to avoid daytime heat.
- Water Retention: Animals like kangaroo rats are adapted to extract moisture from their food and can survive without direct water intake for long periods.
- Camouflage: Many species have developed colors and patterns that blend in with the sand and rocks, protecting them from predators.
These adaptations allow animals to thrive amidst the challenges posed by the desert environment.
Step 3
Discuss the link between plant and animal adaptations
Answer
The interdependence of plants and animals within the desert biome is evident in their adaptations. For instance:
- Food Web: Plants provide food and shelter for animals, while animals contribute to pollination and seed dispersal, enhancing plant reproduction.
- Microhabitats: Some animals depend on specific plants for shade or moisture, illustrating a direct link between their survival and the adaptations of local flora. For example, various insects rely on specific desert flowers for sustenance, showcasing how plant adaptations directly support animal life.
Understanding these relationships is essential to appreciating the complexity of life in desert ecosystems.
Step 4
Use of illustrations
Answer
To enhance the understanding of adaptations:
- Include labeled diagrams of a cacti showing water storage and leaf structure.
- Illustrate a fennec fox with annotations pointing out adaptations like large ears for thermoregulation.
These visuals can provide additional clarity and support the written explanations effectively.