Journal #1 ! - Low Rising Ground Plants - Michelle Chen
Journal Entry #1 - Ground Plants !
By observing its phylogenetic tree on OneZoom, Ground Ivy, also referred to by its scientific name Glechoma Hederacea, belongs to the Plant Kingdom and is 1 of 8 officially identified species in the Genus Glechoma. Zooming out, Ground Ivy are categorized as being a part of the Family Lamiaceae (mint plants), which is a subdivision of the much larger order of Lamiales. This order can be found on the phylogenetic tree by taking a deeper dive into the Tracheophyta phylum, which splits off into the subphylum of Angiospermae and finally the class Magnoliopsida.
Most plants observed were found to be in some way, an invasive species to certain regions, including that of North America-- thus, they have all learned to adjust and adapt to different climates, including developing the ability to survive in Canada’s colder climate. An example would be how Norway Maples are able to maximize the nutrients and energy they receive by secreting certain natural substances into the ground in order to get rid of competition; this abundance in stored energy is what allows them to sustain harsh winters.
Extra Sources / references used : https://www.birdsoutsidemywindow.org/2012/01/11/winter-trees-norway-maple/
A unique adaptation for one of my observations that I found during the lab was for the plant called the White Snakeroot. Over time, it has developed a trait where its leaves contain the poisonous organic compound called trematol. This adaptation ultimately helps the plant to prevent other animals in a shared habitat from consuming it as a food source.
Extra sources / references used:
https://www.britannica.com/science/snakeroot-poisoning
