The Leaf
Chapter Name : Morphology Of Flowering Plants |
Sub Topic Code : 103_11_05_03_04 |
Topic Name : The Leaf |
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Sub Topic Name : Modification Of Leaves |
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Introduction
Leaf modification - Leaves are modified to perform various other functions other than photosynthesis.
Pre-Requisites:
Trying to understand various modifications of a leaf.
Activity:
Leaves of plants in and around your house.
Real Life Question:
Is leaf of a cactus a modified one?
Key Words / FlashCards
| Key Words | Definitions (pref. in our own words) |
|---|---|
| Tendrils | Leaves are converted into tendrils for climbing. Eg - peas. |
| Spines | Leaves are converted into spines for defense. Eg - cactus |
| Fleshy leaves | Some leaves are fleshy which store food. Eg - onion |
| Insectivorous plants | Leaves of insectivorous plants are modified too. Eg - Venus fly trap. |
Learning aids / Gadgets
| Gadgets | How it can be used |
|---|---|
| Microscope | You can observe a section of normal and modified leaf under the microscope to see if these two leaves differ from each other in structure. |
Real life uses :
Modified leaves allow the leaves to perform more than one function
Practical examples around us
| Examples | Explainations |
|---|---|
| Cactus | These plants grow in hot arid regions around the world and leaves are modified in order to conserve water and spines help in defense. |
What you learn in Theory:
The various leaf modifications
What you learn in Practice:
Why certain leaves are modified