Nature: Amazing Abilities 3

– The Mimosa Pudica –

“The Mimosa pudica, colloquially known as the ‘touch-me-not’ plant, boasts a remarkable botanical adaptation that has intrigued scientists for centuries. This perennial herb, native to South and Central America, is distinctively characterized by its thigmonastic movement, a phenomenon where the plant’s leaves fold inward and droop upon touch or disturbance, only to re-open a few minutes later.

This extraordinary reaction is a defensive mechanism to protect itself from potential harm. The sudden movement is designed to deter predators and any environmental threats. At the same time, this action can dislodge any insects that may have landed on the plant’s leaves.

Moreover, the Mimosa pudica showcases an impressive adaptation to its environment by exhibiting a type of movement known as nyctinasty, where the plant’s leaves close at night and re-open at dawn. This behavior aids in preserving water during periods of darkness when photosynthesis is less efficient. Such fascinating capabilities demonstrate the incredible adaptability and resilience that plants, often overlooked compared to animals, possess in nature’s complex and dynamic ecosystem.”

Choose NO MORE THAN TWO words from the text for each answer.

The Mimosa pudica is a perennial __________ that originates from South and Central America.
When touched or __________ , the leaves of this plant close and droop.
After a few __________ , the leaves of the Mimosa pudica re-open.
The folding of the leaves serves as a __________ mechanism against predators and environmental threats.
The Mimosa pudica also shows an adaptation known as __________ , which involves the closing and opening of leaves based on the time of day.
The closing of the leaves at night assists in __________ water when photosynthesis is less efficient.

Choose NO MORE THAN ONE word from the text for each answer.

Originating from South and Central America, the Mimosa pudica, also known as the ‘touch-me-not’ plant, is a perennial __________ recognized for its unique behavioral adaptation. The plant exhibits a defensive mechanism, known as thigmonasty, causing the leaves to __________ and droop when disturbed. This reactive movement, which serves to deter potential __________ and threats, is temporary, with the leaves reopening after a brief period. Moreover, the plant displays a type of movement called __________ , in which the leaves close at night and reopen at dawn. This __________ behavior contributes to water conservation during the night when __________ is less active.

Vocabulary Builder

Find the synonyms (words with the same or similar meaning) to these 9 words from the original passage.

Original word	Variants used
Unique	_________ / __________
Defense	___________________
Distinct	___________________
Deter	___________________
Predators	–
Preserves	___________________
Adapt	___________________
Dynamic	___________________