Plants in the Taiga: Trees
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Fire Adaptations: Jack PineOccasionally, the brush in the taiga catches fire. The Jack Pine has developed waxy needles and thick rough bark. It is often used as lumber for houses, due to its naturally fire-resistant nature. When it is destroyed by fire, the seeds fall and germinate immediately or stay dormant until conditions are ideal. Once thought to be poisonous to the soil, many plant species actually grow with the Jack Pine.
Temperature Adaptations: Black SpruceSimilar to the Jack Pine, the Black Spruce has waxy needles and thick bark to protect it from natural interference. In addition to these characteristics, the Black Spruce is able to survive in the colder climates because of its layered twigs. This protects it from predators also. Its lack of a specific root system allows it to survive in nutrient-poor soil.
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