Root Modifications
This type of root grows deep into the soil to reach water during drought.
Taproot
These modified leaves protect plants and reduce water loss in desert plants like cactus.
Spines
These underground stems grow horizontally and can produce new plants.
Rhizomes
These seeds travel long distances using wind, like dandelions.
Wind-Dispersed Seeds
Plants develop structural changes called these to survive harsh environments.
Plant Modifications
These roots spread out near the surface and help prevent soil erosion.
Fibrous Roots
These narrow leaves reduce water loss and are common on pine trees.
These above-ground stems spread across the ground and form new plants, like strawberries.
Stolons or Runners
These seeds attach to animal fur using hooks or burrs.
Animal-Dispersed Seeds
This process allows plants to use sunlight to make food.
Photosynthesis
Corn plants use these above-ground roots for extra support.
Prop or Brace Roots
These thin structures help climbing plants grab onto supports.
Tendrils
This modified stem stores energy underground, like a potato.
Tuber
These seeds float and spread through water, like coconuts.
Water-Dispersed Seeds
This is the loss of water vapor from plant leaves.
Transpiration
These roots grow above the ground and absorb moisture from the air.
Aerial Roots
These leaves are thick and waxy to prevent water from evaporating in dry climates.
Succulent or Waxy Leaves
These sharp modified stems protect plants from animals.
Thorns
Some pine species rely on this natural event to open their cones and release seeds.
Fire
This environmental pressure causes plants to develop water-saving adaptations.
Drought
These specialized roots grow upward in swampy soil to allow plants to breathe.
Pneumatophores
These specialized leaves trap and digest insects to obtain nutrients.
Carnivorous Leaves
In desert plants like cactus, this type of stem stores water.
Succulent Stems
These seeds delay germination until conditions are right.
Seed Dormancy
Plants evolve modifications mainly to improve this.
Survival