Chapter 24: Problem 10

What type of leaves characterize mediterranean plants?

Short Answer

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Answer: Mediterranean plant leaves are characterized by their small size or needle-like structure, water conservation adaptations, protection from sunlight through fine hairs or a waxy coating, evergreen nature, and production of aromatic compounds due to glandular hairs or oil glands.

Step by step solution

Understand the Mediterranean climate and ecosystem

The Mediterranean climate is characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The plants that have adapted to this environment have developed specific features that allow them to survive, including specific leaf characteristics. Focus on these features to understand the type of leaves that characterize Mediterranean plants.

Water conservation

One of the primary factors that influence plant leaf adaptations in the Mediterranean climate is water conservation. Many Mediterranean plants have leaves that are well-adapted to conserve water. One such adaptation is the presence of small, narrow leaves or needle-like leaves, which reduce water loss through transpiration.

Protection from sunlight

Mediterranean plants are exposed to intense sunlight during the hot summer months. To protect themselves from excessive sunlight and heat, these plants often have leaves covered with fine hairs or a waxy coating, which reflects sunlight and helps to keep the leaf temperature lower.

Evergreen leaves

A considerable number of Mediterranean plants are evergreen, meaning they retain their leaves year-round. This allows the plants to carry out photosynthesis even during the mild, wet winters, providing an advantage in this climate where the growing season can be relatively short.

Aromatic compounds

Many Mediterranean plants have glandular hairs or oil glands on their leaves, which produce essential oils and other aromatic compounds. These volatile compounds not only give the plant its characteristic scent but may also play a role in defending the plant from herbivores, pathogens, and harsh environmental conditions like drought and intense sunlight. In conclusion, Mediterranean plant leaves are characterized by their small size or needle-like structure, water conservation adaptations, protection from sunlight, evergreen nature, and production of aromatic compounds.

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What type of leaves characterize mediterranean plants?

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Understand the Mediterranean climate and ecosystem

Water conservation

Protection from sunlight

Evergreen leaves

Aromatic compounds

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