Rainforest plants, such as orchids, face high humidity and low light availability due to dense canopy cover, which can limit photosynthesis if they are not adapted to capture what little light filters through. Additionally, their reliance on frequent rainfall means they may struggle during dry spells, affecting their water absorption and overall health. In contrast, desert plants like succulents contend with extreme sunlight and minimal water availability, requiring adaptations to conserve water, such as thickened leaves or stomatal opening at night. The high temperatures and aridity can lead to rapid water loss, challenging their ability to photosynthesize effectively during the hottest parts of the day. Overall, the contrasting levels of light, humidity, and water availability directly influence the photosynthetic efficiency of plants in these two environments.
Question
Plants in different environments have challenges that only they have. For example, the growth of a plant in a rainforest (e.g., an orchid) might be more affected by different things than a plant in a desert (e.g., a succulent). In three to five sentences, compare environmental challenges that could affect the photosynthetic process of a rainforest plant versus a desert plant.
1 answer