Consider the following adaptations in the vegetation:

1. Deep roots.
2. Large dark green leaves.
3. Thick Bark.
4. Waxy cuticle.

Which of the following are the adaptations of vegetation in the tropical climates? Choose the correct answer:

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 and 4 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 

Explanation:

Vegetation of a region represents the sum total of the climatic condition, the below illustration shows the adaptability of the vegetation to the prevailing climatic condition.

Adaptations to tropical climates:

• Large dark-green leaves (= lots of chlorophyll) to absorb sun light, especially in understory with lots of shade.
• Leaf arrangement maximizes light capture.
• Slick waxy cuticle to allow rain to run off
• Shallow roots (no need to go deep for nitrogen or water) and buttress or stilt roots (to help with stability).
• Continuous growth (no year-rings in trees); trees can reach enormous heights.

Adaptations to desert climates:

• Small leaves or no leaves at all to minimize water loss
• Photosynthesis instead often in trunk
• Leaves are frequently modified to spines which aid in defense but also can reflect excess light.
• Highly reflective cuticle to reflect excess light.
• Succulence – storing of water in specialized tissues (fleshy leaves, trunks, underground etc.) also extensive and deep root system.

Adaptations to temperate climates:

• annual life cycle
• deciduousness when perennial
• If not deciduous then leaves are needles protected by thick cuticles to survive winter.
• thick bark to protect against cold winters.

Hence, Option (b)- Only 2 and 4 are the correct options.