adaptions

• What is the main environment discussed in Unit 10?

  Tropical Rainforests
• Why are plants and animals able to survive in tropical rainforests?

  They have adapted to the hot, wet, steamy environment
• What are the physical conditions that plants in the rainforest have adapted to?

  • High rainfall
  • High temperatures
  • Unpredictable high sunlight
• What type of roots do free-standing trees have in the rainforest?

  Buttress roots
• What is the purpose of the thick, waxy leaves with pointed drip tips in rainforest plants?

  To encourage rapid drainage and prevent stagnant water
• How do the smooth, dark bark of trees benefit them in the rainforest?

  It helps rain to run off easily
• What do many trees in the rainforest do throughout the year to continue growing?

  Drop their leaves gradually
• What are the four layers of plants in the rainforest?

  1. Emergent layer
  2. Canopy layer
  3. Understory layer
  4. Forest floor
• Why do frequent trees only have branches at their tops?

  Because that is where the most light is available
• What adaptation do some understory plants have to absorb sunlight?

  Large leaves
• How have many animals adapted to their habitat in the rainforest?

  They have strong limbs to move quickly in trees
• What type of wings do some birds have to navigate through trees?

  Short, pointed wings
• What helps tree frogs climb in the rainforest?

  Suction cups
• How do flying squirrels move between trees?

  Using flaps of skin to glide
• What is an example of an animal that is camouflaged in the rainforest?

  Leaf insects
• How do anteaters adapt to low light levels on the understory floor?

  They have a sharp sense of smell
• What is a common behavior of nocturnal animals in the rainforest?

  They feed at night
• Why do nocturnal animals like sloths feed at night?

  To save energy when it’s cooler
• Which animal is known for its ability to swim in the rainforest?

  Jaguars
• What is the significance of adaptations in tropical rainforests?

  • Help plants and animals thrive
  • Enable survival in hot, wet conditions
  • Allow efficient resource use
• What might you see in an exam related to tropical rainforests?

  A picture of the rainforest