ESSAY INFORMATION:
Written by: Xuân Phi, 22/12/2024
Supported by: Ex-BC Examiner, 23/12/2024
Question:
ANSWER (8.0+):
The diagram illustrates the method employed by small and large Venus Flytrap species to handle small prey in order to ensure efficient digestion.
Overall, both types of Venus Flytraps follow a similar process to capture prey, beginning with the stimulation of trigger hairs, followed by the rapid closure of the trap, and concluding with nutrient absorption. However, larger traps optimize their use of digestive enzymes by excluding small prey.
Looking first at the structure, the plant’s leaves have evolved into traps. Each trap consists of two hinged parts that can snap shut. Along the edges are long, hair-like structures that give the plant the appearance of having spiny teeth. Inside the trap, there are several trigger hairs.Turning to the mechanism, when small prey, such as ants, touch the trigger hairs, the trap snaps shut quickly, and the outer teeth interlock to enclose the prey. Once the trap closes, the plant releases enzymes to digest the prey and absorb nutrients. However, when small prey enter a large trap, they may only contact a few trigger hairs. This enables the plant to recognize the prey as small and allow it to escape, thereby conserving digestive enzymes for larger targets.
(Word count: 198)
WORD LIST
ENGLISH | TIẾNG VIỆT |
Handle small prey | Xử lý con mồi nhỏ |
Efficient digestion | Tiêu hóa hiệu quả |
Stimulation of trigger hairs | Kích thích các lông kích hoạt |
Rapid closure | Đóng lại nhanh chóng |
Nutrient absorption | Hấp thụ chất dinh dưỡng |
Excluding small prey | Loại trừ con mồi nhỏ |
Spiny teeth | Răng gai |
Release enzymes | Giải phóng enzyme |
Absorb nutrients | Hấp thụ chất dinh dưỡng |
Larger targets | Mục tiêu lớn hơn |