Narrator: Listen to part of a lecture in an environmental science class. Professor: Today we're going to talk about a fascinating adaptation in desert plants. The saguaro cactus, native to the Sonoran Desert, can live for over 150 years and grow to be 40 feet tall. But how does it survive in an environment with less than 10 inches of rain a year? Well, its shallow root system spreads out widely, just a few inches below the surface, to capture water from even light rains. The roots can absorb water rapidly, and the cactus stores it in its thick, ribbed stem. The ribs allow the cactus to expand like an accordion when it stores water, and contract during droughts. Additionally, the waxy coating on the stem reduces water loss. The saguaro also has a slow growth rate, which helps it conserve energy. Interestingly, most of its growth occurs during the summer monsoon season when rains are more frequent. Now, why is this adaptation so crucial? Because it allows the cactus to survive long periods without any rainfall, which is common in its habitat.
❓ Вопрос According to the professor, how does the saguaro cactus primarily adapt to the desert environment?
A. A. It grows deep roots to reach underground water.
B. B. It stores water in its stem and absorbs rain efficiently.
C. C. It loses its leaves to reduce water evaporation.
D. D. It grows quickly to complete its life cycle before drought.
✅ Правильный ответ
B. It stores water in its stem and absorbs rain efficiently.
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