Samantha Lawson by https://padlet.com/slawson31/rv1q6voyibpdv7th BIOL 1020 en-us 2021-08-14 14:03:44 UTC 2021-09-11 02:55:58 UTC hello@padlet.com Unit 1 slawson31 https://padlet.com/slawson31/rv1q6voyibpdv7th/wish/1700058751 Understanding plant anatomy is not only important for knowing when to water your succulents, but also when designing city infrastructure.
When you walk down an urban main street gazing at the trees and shrubs along the road, most don't give it a second glance. But understanding these flora leads to limited pollination.
In most cities, only male trees are utilized for landscaping. This means that pollination is heavily restricted in these areas. According to the Guardian, planting only male trees can lead to increased allergies and inclination to infection and fever related to allergies. Male trees produce the pollen that leads to allergic reactions in humans. But this also means there is a decreased chance for unwanted pollination and germination in urban areas.




]]> 2021-08-27 04:00:24 UTC https://padlet.com/slawson31/rv1q6voyibpdv7th/wish/1700058751 Unit 2 slawson31 https://padlet.com/slawson31/rv1q6voyibpdv7th/wish/1732159726  
The physiology of plants can vary as drastically as animals. By understanding how plants work and adapt, we can understand more about biomes, soils, and even how to care for our own gardens. 
Desert plants have been forced to adapt to the harsh environment in which they live, with often extreme temperatures and draught. With little competition, these species have filled a niche as water reservoirs and often food sources for herbivorous animals. Adapting to these conditions has left them much different than most other plant species. 
As described in this video above, there are some key differences in cacti physiology and ecology. These plants are nocturnal, opening the stomata only at night. By using CAM photosynthesis (crassulacean acid metabolism), cacti are able to exchange gasses with very limited evapotranspiration. 
The root system is also slightly different from other types of plants. Rather than digging into the earth to find ground water, these roots sit just under the surface to absorb any rainwater they can. When it does rain, the roots explode to absorb more water. As draught happens, the roots break off to prevent drying out. 
The waxy exterior of the epidermis allows for water retention, an important characteristic for desert plants. The trunk of the plant expands to allow for water retention so nothing is wasted. 
Cacti are just one example of how plants are truly adapted to their environments.
]]> 2021-09-11 02:55:58 UTC https://padlet.com/slawson31/rv1q6voyibpdv7th/wish/1732159726