Question

Why do some plants in the tundra retain their dead leaves instead of shedding them?
a.
The plants absorb the nutrients in the dead leaves.
b.
The dead leaves insulate new buds from the cold.
c.
The dead leaves protect them from predatory insects.
d.
The dead leaves help them survive long periods of drought.

Answer 1

b. The dead leaves insulate new buds from the cold.

Retaining dead leaves forms a protective, insulating layer that reduces heat loss and wind exposure around buds and stems, helping tundra plants survive extreme cold and frost.