Question

When growing in windy environments, this organism will grow low along the ground, but when growing in sheltered environments, it grows tall. The leaves have a waxy coating to reduce moisture loss, a chemical makeup that makes them fairly fire resistant, and produce a scent that deters predators. It also has a large root system and root crowns. What organism and environment is described above?
a.
coyote brush and chaparral
b.
cacti and desert
c.
mesquite and savanna
d.
coyote brush and taiga

Answer 1

The organism described in the scenario is **coyote brush (Baccharis pilularis)**, which typically grows in chaparral environments. In windy conditions, coyote brush tends to grow low to the ground, while in sheltered areas, it can grow taller. The characteristics such as a waxy coating on the leaves to reduce moisture loss, fire resistance, scent to deter predators, and a large root system are consistent with adaptations seen in coyote brush within a chaparral habitat.

Therefore, the correct answer is:
**a. coyote brush and chaparral**.