Cactus Tree: Structure, Functions and Adaptations

This PowerPoint explains key features of the cactus tree; including its structural parts in relation to their functions; their adaptations to their harsh environments.

1. Cactus Power How a Desert Plant Survives and Thrives Prepared by Robert Opili

2. A large cactus in a desert

3. Definition Welcome everyone ! A cactus is a succulent flowering plant of the family Cactaceae , characterized by thick, fleshy stems that store water and areoles from which spines, flowers, and new branches grow.

4. Turning Sunlight into Food Uses sunlight in a process called photosynthesis Takes in CO₂ through tiny holes (stomata) Makes sugar for energy

5. From Food to Energy: Cellular Respiration in Cacti Glycolysis – This occurs in the cytoplasm and breaks one glucose molecule into two molecules of pyruvate, producing a small amount of ATP and NADH. Citric Acid Cycle (Krebs Cycle) – The pyruvate enters the mitochondria and is further broken down, producing more NADH and a small amount of ATP.

6. Electron Transport Chain – The NADH molecules donate electrons to a chain of proteins in the inner mitochondrial membrane, producing the bulk of ATP and consuming oxygen in the process.

7. Special Trick: CAM Photosynthesis Stomata open at night to save water CO₂ stored as acid until daytime Photosynthesis happens during the day

8. Tiny Helpers: Enzymes Enzymes speed up plant processes Help turn sunlight into sugar Help convert sugar into energy

9. When Enzymes Don’t Work Cactus can’t make or use food properly Growth slows or stops Plant may die

10. Making Energy from Food Sugar is broken down in steps Makes ATP—the plant’s energy fuel Happens in mitochondria

11. Amazing Adaptations Waxy skin keeps water in Spines protect and reduce water loss Wide, shallow roots catch rain fast

12. What Makes the Cactus So Cool? Uses sunlight and special tricks to make food Enzymes help with energy and growth Built to survive extreme heat and dryness

13. Got Questions? Ask anything about cacti or plant science! Thanks for joining us!