Question

8b) Explain how each of the following structures adapt the organisms that possess them to their modes of life: (i) succulent leaves in Aloe sp. (ii) succulent stems and reduced leaves in cactus plants (iii) short, strong beaks in fowls (iv) counter shading in fish (v) scale leaves on needle-like branches of pine trees. [10 marks]

Accepted Answer

(i) Succulent leaves in Aloe sp. are adapted for water conservation.
(ii) Succulent stems and reduced leaves in cactus plants reduce the rate of transpiration so that water is conserved.
(iii) Short, strong beaks in fowls are adapted for picking insects, seeds, earthworms etc.
(iv) Counter shading in fish helps in protection from predation.
(v) Scale leaves on needle-like branches of pine trees reduce the rate of transpiration.

WAEC Biology 2010 Theory — Question 22

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