In the Great Australian Desert, Rainfall Averages About 30 Centimetres

question 79

Multiple Choice

In the Great Australian Desert, rainfall averages about 30 centimetres per year. Yet, it is not uncommon when hiking in this extremely arid zone to encounter mosses and ferns. One such plant is called "flower of stone". It is not a flowering plant, nor does it produce seeds. Under arid conditions, its leaflike structures curl up. However, when it rains, it unfurls its leaves, which form a bright green rosette on the desert floor. Consequently, it is sometimes called the "resurrection plant". At first glance, it could be a fern, a true moss, or a spike moss.
-In which combination of locations would one who is searching for the gametophytes of "flower of stone" have the best chance of finding them?

• A) in moist soil
• B) in moist soil and underground, nourished there by symbiotic fungi
• C) in shady, moist places and underground, nourished there by symbiotic fungi
• D) in shady, moist places, far from any "flower of stone" sporophytes

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Definitions:

Participant Observation

A qualitative research method used in anthropology and sociology where the researcher immerses themselves in a community to observe and participate in their daily activities.

Observing

The act of carefully watching or monitoring something or someone to gain information.

Participating

The action of taking part in an activity or event, often contributing towards a common goal or for mutual benefit.

Molecular Anthropology

A branch of anthropology that uses genetic and genomic data to study the evolutionary relationships and genetic diversity of humans and their relatives.