The giant quiver tree, Aloe pillansii, in Fig. 5.1, is an endangered species. These trees live for a very long time and are adapted to severe conditions. Some populations of A. pillansii occur in Richtersveld National Park, whereas another population is located just beyond the park boundary on a mountain known as Cornell’s Kop in southern Africa.
(a(i))[1]
State the genus to which the giant quiver tree belongs.
(a(ii))[3]
Explain why the A. pillansii trees on Cornell’s Kop can be regarded as a population.
(b)[3]
Suggest three reasons why the giant quiver tree is classed as an endangered species.
(c)[3]
Explain the dangers to a plant species of having very small numbers.
(d(i))[2]
Calculate the percentage decrease in the number of living trees at site B between 1953 and 2004. Show your working and give your answer to the nearest whole number.
(d(ii))[3]
Describe what the photograph analysis reveals about the A. pillansii population on Cornell’s Kop.
Worked solution & mark scheme
This 15-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: “Aloe” …