Chapter 23: Problem 6

What major environmental factor controls annual cycles in savanna plant communities?

Short Answer

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Answer: The major environmental factor controlling annual cycles in savanna plant communities is water availability, specifically in the form of rainfall.

Step by step solution

Identify factors affecting savanna plant communities

Several factors can affect the growth and dynamics of savanna plant communities. These factors include available water, temperature, sunlight, soil type, grazing animals, and fire. Each of these factors interacts to influence the structure, composition, and productivity of savanna ecosystems.

Analysing the importance of water availability

Water availability is a crucial factor in savanna plant communities as it determines the type and density of vegetation that can grow in a particular area. In savannas, there is a marked variation in the amount and distribution of rainfall. These ecosystems typically receive moderate to low annual rainfall, and experience periods of high drought stress that can last for several months.

Analysing the importance of temperature

Temperature is another important factor influencing the growth of savanna plant communities. Most savannas are found in regions with a tropically warm climate, which allows for year-round plant growth. High temperatures also increase the rate of evaporation, which adds further stress to the water availability for plants.

Analysing the importance of fire

Fire is a natural disturbance that plays a vital role in shaping the structure and dynamics of savanna plant communities. Fires can limit the encroachment of woody plants into grassy areas by killing off saplings and promoting the growth of grasses. Additionally, some savanna plants, such as those in the family Fabaceae, have seeds that require exposure to fire or heat before they can germinate.

Determining the major environmental factor controlling annual cycles

Considering the factors mentioned in the previous steps, it becomes evident that water availability, specifically in the form of rainfall, is the major environmental factor controlling annual cycles in savanna plant communities. The amount of rainfall received regulates the growth and survival of plants, as well as the intensity and frequency of fires that help maintain the balance between grasses and woody plants. Without sufficient rainfall, drought stress limits the productivity of these ecosystems, eventually leading to the collapse of plant communities.

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What major environmental factor controls annual cycles in savanna plant communities?

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Identify factors affecting savanna plant communities

Analysing the importance of water availability

Analysing the importance of temperature

Analysing the importance of fire

Determining the major environmental factor controlling annual cycles

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