... roots and the atmosphere. Stilt/prop roots grow downwards from the trunk and branches, providing gas exchange in the exposed sections and water uptake in the sections below the sediment and are characteristic in Rhizophora stylosa and Ceriops tagal. Knee roots are raised loop sections of ... marina have a white tomentum (felty layer) at the lower leaf surface for reflecting bright light to lower plant temperature, and hence reduce water loss. Apart from the survival under saline and anaerobic conditions, mangroves also have to overcome the problem of their seeds being able to germinate ....

• Word Count: 908
• Approx Pages: 4
• Grade Level: Undergraduate

... climate, coupled with the lack of native insect pests from Asia, promoted the unchecked growth of kuzdu. Roots weighed as much as 500 pounds and crawled up to seven feet beneath the soil, while vines extended 32-100 feet in length. It also became clear that kuzdu was out-competing and wiping out native plants, thereby becoming a source of "biological pollution ... -made structures such as damaged buildings and overhead wires as well. Kuzdu can even uproot trees through the force of its tremendous weight, and its massive root systems affect soil water levels and hydrology of an area. The ...

• Word Count: 372
• Approx Pages: 1
• Grade Level: Undergraduate