Chaparral

The chaparral biome was relatively dry and hot, especially in comparison to the moist evergreen forest.

1. French Broom: The French Broom is considered an invasive plant in California. It has dense, slender green stems and very small leaves to reduce excessive loss of moisture in the dry growing conditions in the chaparral biome. It is also a fire-climax species adapted to regular stand-replacing fires which kill the above-ground parts of the plants, but create conditions for regrowth from the roots and also for germination of stored seeds in the soil. This is useful in the chaparral as the dry conditions can often lead to fires. It is also short, shrubby and woody which reflects its hardiness and ability to conserve energy.
2. California Poppy: In the colder northern California, the California Poppy is annual. It dies off in the winter but the roots survive to grow another plant when the weather warms in the Spring. The California Poppy is able to self-seed, ensuring its survival and is adapted to fire. It is also very tolerant to droughts and high temperatures, idea for the arid environment in the chaparral.
3. Ladybug: The ladybug has shield-like fore wings that allow it to live under loose bark where it is cooler, allowing it to weather the hot conditions. It is also poisonous, ensuring that it is protected from predators.
4. Poison oak: The poison oak is very shrubby and woody, reflecting its hardiness against drought. In general, the poison oak is able to adapt easily to different environments, accounting for why its so prevalent!
5. Milk Thistle: The Milk Thistle has thorns and spiky leaves to prevent excessive loss of moisture so as to combat the dry conditions, and also to protect itself against herbivorous animals.

Posted on February 22, 2013 08:02 AM by liyingtan