Question

plants and animal species in grasslands have developed adaptations that help them survive in their environment. savanna plants are generally small because they burn during the dry season and have to regrow. some, like acacia and baobab trees, can store water in their roots, bulbs, or trunks. others flower only part of the year to save water. savanna grass grows very quickly when the rains return. some varieties can grow one inch or more in a single day! savanna animals, including lions, elephants, zebras, giraffes, baboons, and rhinoceroses, have evolved to adapt to the long dry season. many migrate long distances to find food and water. other grassland animals, like antelope, gazelles, and prairie dogs, have tan coats that blend in with the plant life. bison, which live on north american prairies, evolved to have flat teeth and a digestive system ideal for eating grass.

according to the passage, which of these plants is best adapted to survive in the savanna?

choose one option

a a very tall tree that requires a lot of water

b a large shrub that flowers all year long

c a small tree that stores water in its trunk

d a shrub that grows extremely slowly

Explanation:

To determine the best - adapted plant, we analyze the passage:

• For option A: The passage says savanna plants are generally small and some store water. A very tall tree that needs a lot of water goes against the adaptations (small size and water - saving/ - storing), so A is incorrect.
• For option B: The passage states that some savanna plants flower only part of the year to save water. A large shrub that flowers all year long does not match this water - saving adaptation, so B is incorrect.
• For option C: The passage mentions that savanna plants like acacia and baobab trees (which are small - sized in the savanna context) can store water in their roots, bulbs, or trunks. A small tree that stores water in its trunk fits this adaptation, so C is correct.
• For option D: The passage says savanna grass grows very quickly when rains return. A shrub that grows extremely slowly does not match the growth - related adaptation of savanna plants, so D is incorrect.

Answer:

C. A small tree that stores water in its trunk