Topic 2: Plant Structures & Adaptations

Why is it important to understand plant structure? To understand how plants work Plants need to be matched to their growing conditions

Basic plant structure Label the Leaves Roots Stem Flower Fruit

Roots Up to 1/3 of the plant lies below the ground

Functions 1. Absorb water and nutrients from the soil HOW? 2. Support and anchor the plant 3. Store food in times of scarcity Eg. Winter

HOW do roots absorb water and nutrients? Diffusion & Osmosis Tendency of particles to become evenly distributed Particles move from an area of high concentration to areas of low concentration Requires no energy

Higher amount of nutrients in the soil Lower amount in the roots What does this mean for plant roots? Higher amount of nutrients in the soil Lower amount in the roots Particles want to move so that there is a balance between # in soil and in roots

Nutrients move from the soil into the roots via DIFFUSION

Osmosis Diffusion of water

Types of Roots How might an alpine plant’s roots be different from a rain forest plant’s roots? Think structure… Why are there different types of roots? Must be adapted to obtaining water and nutrients in a specific environment

1) Taproot Single prominent root with numerous small roots coming out of it Small roots = root hairs Increase surface area of roots Increases plant’s ability to absorb water and nutrients

2) Fibrous root System of many similar-sized roots Roots are shallow Spread out horizontally

When would a tap root be advantageous? Can reach deep into the ground to get nutrients and water What types of conditions might plants with taproots be adapted for? Dry, nutrient-poor Areas where there are many other plants Moss campion

When would a fibrous root be advantageous? Can quickly soak up moisture and nutrients that are near the surface What types of conditions might plants with fibrous roots be adapted for? Wet, nutrient-rich Duckweed