Plant Physiology & Adaptations Examples of structures in plants that allow for specific functions and that enhance their survival.

What are some of the structures in plants we have observed/discussed? Add one or two plant structures to your paper. Pass your paper to the right and have your neighbor write one or two structures. Continue until three people have contributed to your list while you contribute to others lists.

What are some of the structures in plants we have observed/discussed?

Food Storage Plants store food in bulb structures in their roots below the ground or in their stems for the winter or times where light or nutrients are limited. Ex. Carrots, sweet potatoes, ginger, potatoes, onions, garlic, turnips, radishes. Why might some plants store extra food under ground instead of above ground? To protect it from animals or because it is a more consistent temperature.

Seed Dispersal Plants use different seed structures to insure dispersal (spreading) of their seeds. Ex. Dandelions, tree seeds (see Maple seed to left), nuts, fruit with seeds. How do you think each of the seed structures in the picture help the plant to disperse their seeds?

Pollination Flowering plants use different methods to attract pollinators to help fertilize eggs within their flowers. Ex. Flower color, flower shape, and nectar to attract various types of pollinators. What structures does the flower the left have that might help attract pollinators? Predict: What mouth shape would the pollinator need to access the nectar within this flower?

Leaf Shape/Structure Plants use different leaf shapes and structures to collect light to make food (photosynthesis) and to conserve water. Ex. Oval, lobed, rounded. In what ways might some of the leaf structures to the left be helpful to gather different amounts of available light?