How do the various leaf modifications help plants?
The principal feature of the leaves is to perform the technique of photosynthesis. However, in some plant life, leaves are changed to carry out exceptional functions. (a) Tendrils: The leaves of a pea plant are changed into tendrils that assist the plant in climbing. (b) Spines: The leaves in cactus are changed into sharp spines that act as an organ of defense. (c) Phyllode: The leaves of a few Australian acacia are short-lived and shortly changed through flattened, inexperienced structures referred to as phyllodes that rise up from the petiole of the leaves. The petioles in those plant life synthesize food. (d) Pitcher: The leaves of the pitcher plant are changed into pitcher-like structures, which include digestive juices and assist in trapping and digesting insects.
