Tropical Morphology How Plants Adapt Rain Forest The University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences Root & Stem Structures Specialized Support Adaptation

About The Author Dr. Paul A. Thomas – Professor of Floriculture – Department of Horticulture – The University of Georgia – Extension Specialist – Really into Photography!

Learning Objectives 1. Tropical plants live in a very competitive environment. Because of this, many have very specialized root and stem adaptations that help them stay competitive. The learner should be able to describe several of these adaptations. 2. Be able to describe three plant support adaptations that rainforest plants have that involve the roots, stems or leaves.

Arch roots form wide bases in soft, wet tropical soils.

Vines and Saplings Use Mature Trees as a Route to Upper Canopy

Strangler figs overcome other species, using older trees for support.

Aerial roots allow for large surface areas to adsorb nutrients and water from rainfall.

Specialized roots allow adsorption and water storage, and photosynthesis!

Leaves Can Be The Basis For Trunks

Palm Roots Grow Outward and Down From the Base

Summary We have seen that there are several very unique adaptations that rainforest plant have that allow them support their leaves. Roots that surround or use other plants stems, leaves that make tree trunks, and roots that can attach themselves to rocks, or even other trees are just a few of the amazing adaptations one can find in a rainforest.

Assessment Opportunity Design your own survival adaptation for rainforest plants. What would the advantages be? How would the plant you design interact with its competitors? What role would this plant serve in the environment?

For Future Exploration igs.htm igs.htm