Australian Flora
Australian Flora
Australian Flora
Protective Bark: the bark of much of the adapted flora became very thick
and heat-resistant so that parts of the tree could be protected, e.g.
epicormic buds.
Epicormic Buds: Epicormic buds are protected underneath the bark, and
whenever defoliation occurs, the buds are released to provide the necessary
energy to photosynthesize until the plant has recovered. This is great adaption
which makes survival in the Australian climate much easier.
2. Dependence on Fires
Some species of flora have even become dependent on fires for survival. Many
plants with woody seed pods need a fire to enable their seeds to drop and
then land on the ground as so they can germinate.
Australian Fauna:
Koala: The koala has thick fur which is waterproof and can also
adapt depending on the temperature. Another adaption is the
pouch, where the young is kept. It also has a large nose with a great
sense of smell. The most unusual and amazing adaption is that the
koala has two opposable thumbs on its front legs and only one on its
hind which help it too climb along with the sharp claws.
Platypus: The fur of the platypus traps a layer of air to keep it warm.
The tail is used to store fat reserves and it has webbed feet which
are used to swim. The snout is a sensory organ to help guide the platypus
as its eyes are shut whilst swimming.
Emu: Emus are flightless birds that have small wings and long legs.
They can run up to 48km/h due to having gastrocnemius muscles on
their lower legs; this is found in no other animal. The coat is acts as an
insulator by keeping out the heat as so they can stay active during the
day.