Which Plant is Best Adapted to Prevent an Embolism in Their

Question

Which plant is best adapted to prevent an embolism in their xylem tubes?
A) a banana plant in a very warm climate
B) a spruce tree with narrow, tapering tracheids
C) a maple tree with wide, perforated vessel elements
D) a cattail in a marsh

Accepted Answer

Spruce trees, with their narrow, tapering tracheids, are best adapted to prevent embolisms in their xylem tubes. The narrow tracheids and the tapering shape help to minimize the risk of air bubbles forming and blocking the water transport system, which is crucial for survival in environments where water can be scarce or freezing temperatures are common.