2e Leaves

These flashcards cover key terminology and concepts related to leaf structure, functions, and adaptations in plants, including different habitats and specialized plant types.

Ecology of Leaves

The study of the interactions between leaf structure and their environmental functions.

Xerophytes

Plants adapted to dry habitats.

Hydrophytes

Plants that thrive in wet habitats.

Mesophytes

Plants that require moderate moisture conditions.

C4 Plants

Plants, like corn and sugarcane, that utilize a four-carbon pathway for photosynthesis.

Abscission Zone

A layer of cells that facilitate leaf drop in trees.

Deciduous

Trees or shrubs that shed their leaves seasonally.

Succulence

The quality of having thick, fleshy tissues adapted to retain water.

Drip Tips

Leaf tips that help in water drainage to reduce the weight of water on leaf surfaces.

Tendrils

Modified leaves that help plants climb or support themselves.

Carnivorous Plants

Plants that capture and digest animals, usually insects, to obtain nutrients, primarily nitrogen.

Photosystem Oxidation

A critical phase in photosynthesis that involves the conversion of light energy to chemical energy.

Transpiration

The process of water loss through leaf stomata.

Guard Cells

Specialized cells surrounding stomata that regulate gas exchange.

Trichome

Hair-like structures on plant leaves that serve various functions including protection and reducing water loss.