Study specimens A, B and C carefully and use them to answer questions (a) to (d). (a) State the habitats specimens A, Band C. (b) State (i) two observable f...

(a) Habitats of specimens A, B and C

(b)(i) Two observable features and (ii) how each adapts the specimen to its habitat

Specimen A (Water lettuce)

• Broad, spongy leaves borne in a rosette – keep the plant buoyant and expose the maximum surface to sunlight for photosynthesis.
• Numerous fine adventitious roots hanging in the water – absorb water and mineral salts and aid flotation; fine hairs on the leaves also prevent water from blocking the stomata.

Specimen B (Cactus)

• Leaves modified into spines – greatly reduce water loss by transpiration and deter herbivores.
• Succulent green stem with a thick waxy cuticle – stores water and checks water loss while still carrying out photosynthesis.

Specimen C (Waterleaf / Talinum sp.)

• Well-developed swollen taproot – anchors the plant, absorbs water and mineral salts, and stores food.
• Erect branched stem bearing numerous green leaves – holds the leaves up to receive maximum sunlight for photosynthesis.

(c) Three observable differences between specimens A and C

(d) Drawing of specimen C (Waterleaf / Talinum sp.)

The drawing below, 8–10 cm long, shows specimen C in correct proportion with all parts fully labelled using ruled label lines that do not cross.