A Plant Responding to Changes in Environment:
The Mimosa pudica (Sensitive Plant):
This fascinating plant exhibits a rapid response to touch. When touched, its leaves quickly fold inward and droop, as if wilting.
How it works:
* The mimosa pudica has specialized cells at the base of its leaves called pulvini.
* When the plant is touched, these cells lose water rapidly, causing the leaves to fold.
* This response is thought to be a defense mechanism, deterring herbivores from eating the plant.
Why this is a response to environmental change:
* The mimosa pudica is responding to the physical change of being touched.
* This response is an adaptation that helps the plant survive.
This example demonstrates a clear and immediate response of a plant to a change in its environment.