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In areas of permafrost, stands of black spruce are frequently observed in the landscape, while other tree species are noticeably absent. Often these stands are referred to as "drunken forests" because many of the black spruce are displaced from their normal vertical alignment.
-What might be the adaptive significance of these unusual forests growing the way they do in this marginal habitat?
A) Needles are adapted to withstand cold arctic temperatures.
B) Branches are adapted to absorb more CO₂ with this displaced alignment.
C) Taproot formation is impossible, so trees developed shallow root beds.
D) Trees are tilted so snow prevents them from breaking or tipping over.
E) Trees tip so that they do not compete with each other for sunlight.

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In permafrost regions, the ground is too hard for trees to develop deep taproots. Instead, black spruce and similar species adapt by forming shallow root systems that spread out near the surface, which contributes to their displaced or "drunken" appearance.

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