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BIOLOGY, M4 EQ-Bank 8

Explain how the unique abiotic factors of the Australian continent have influenced the evolution of sclerophyll plants. In your answer, provide two specific adaptations.   (4 marks)

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  • The evolution of sclerophyll plants in Australia is closely tied to the continent’s abiotic factors, particularly its nutrient-poor soils, arid climate, and frequent bushfires.
  • These plants have developed tough, leathery leaves with a thick cuticle to reduce water loss in the dry Australian environment, a key adaptation to water scarcity.
  • Sclerophyll species like eucalypts and banksias have also evolved strategies to cope with nutrient-poor soils, such as cluster roots that efficiently extract phosphorus.
  • Many sclerophyll plants have developed fire-resistant adaptations, including lignotubers for post-fire regeneration and fruits that release seeds after fire.
  • These adaptations demonstrate how the challenging abiotic conditions in Australia have acted as strong selective pressures, shaping the evolution of a unique flora highly specialised for survival in this harsh environment.
Show Worked Solution
  • The evolution of sclerophyll plants in Australia is closely tied to the continent’s abiotic factors, particularly its nutrient-poor soils, arid climate, and frequent bushfires.
  • These plants have developed tough, leathery leaves with a thick cuticle to reduce water loss in the dry Australian environment, a key adaptation to water scarcity.
  • Sclerophyll species like eucalypts and banksias have also evolved strategies to cope with nutrient-poor soils, such as cluster roots that efficiently extract phosphorus.
  • Many sclerophyll plants have developed fire-resistant adaptations, including lignotubers for post-fire regeneration and fruits that release seeds after fire.
  • These adaptations demonstrate how the challenging abiotic conditions in Australia have acted as strong selective pressures, shaping the evolution of a unique flora highly specialised for survival in this harsh environment.