Adaptation for transport in plants

Question 1

How is the root structured?

Answer 1

Epidermis, exodermis, cortex (parenchyma), phloem, xylem, endodermis.

Question 2

What are the 4 components of xylem

Answer 2

Vessels, tracheids, fibres, parenchyma.

Question 3

How are hydrophytes adapted

Answer 3

1. No waxy cuticle, as no need to conserve water.
2. stomata on upper surface as lower surface is submerged.
3. poorly developed xylem, as no need to transport water
4. large air spaces to provide buoyancy.

Question 4

How are mesophytes adapted?

Answer 4

1. Close stomata at night to decrease water loss.
2. shed leaves in unfavourable conditions (winter)
3. underground organs (bulbs) and dormant seeds to survive the winter

Question 5

How are xerophytes adapted?

Answer 5

Thick waxy cuticle to reduce water loss.
Sunken stomata to increase humidity, therefore reducing water potential gradient, so less water loss
Rolled leaves which reduces area of the leaf exposed to the air.
interlocking hairs trap water vapour inside rolled leaf, reducing water potential gradient and therefore water loss.