Question
Here is the question : CACTUS SPINES ARE A KIND OF WHAT?
Option
Here is the option for the question :
- Thorn
- Leaf
- Stem
- Flower
The Answer:
And, the answer for the the question is :
Explanation:
Cactus spines may look like thorns, but they are actually modified leaves that serve two purposes: they deter herbivores from nibbling on the plant and they help the plant’s stem retain heat during the day. At night, the spines draw moisture from the air and drip it to the plant’s roots.
Cactus spines are a defining feature of these unique and fascinating plants. They come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, and they serve several important functions for the cactus. While they may look like leaves at first glance, cactus spines are actually a type of modified stem tissue.
Unlike leaves, which are flat and thin and typically grow from the branches or stem of a plant, cactus spines are cylindrical or conical in shape and grow directly from the surface of the cactus stem. They are made up of the same tissues as the stem, including the epidermis, cortex, and vascular tissues.
Cactus spines serve several important functions for the plant. First and foremost, they provide protection against predators and herbivores. The sharp, pointed spines can deter animals from feeding on the cactus, and they can also protect the plant from damage caused by wind, sand, and other environmental factors.
cactus spines also help to reduce water loss from the plant. The spines create a layer of dead air space around the cactus stem, which helps to insulate the plant and prevent water loss through evaporation. This is especially important in arid environments, where water is scarce and conservation is key to survival.
Cactus spines can also play a role in photosynthesis, the process by which plants produce food from sunlight. While cactus stems are not typically photosynthetic, some species of cacti have evolved spines that are modified into small, flattened structures called “spine cushions.” These cushions have a large surface area relative to their volume, which allows them to absorb more sunlight and support photosynthesis.
cactus spines are a type of modified stem tissue that serve several important functions for the plant. They provide protection against predators and environmental factors, help to reduce water loss, and can even play a role in photosynthesis. While they may look like leaves at first glance, cactus spines are a unique and fascinating adaptation that has allowed these plants to thrive in some of the harshest environments on earth.