Final answer:
Deciduous plants are those that endure seasonal climatic fluctuations by shedding their leaves to conserve water. Evergreen plants like those in boreal forests retain their needle-shaped leaves all year. Plant survival varies with adaptations to climate, such as drought or pest resistance, and specific environmental conditions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Plants that endure seasonal climatic fluctuations, such as those that experience extreme variations in temperatures across different seasons, are known as deciduous plants. These plants respond to changes in season by losing their leaves, which is beneficial as it reduces water loss during dry spells. In contrast, evergreen plants, like pines and spruces in the boreal forest, retain their needle-shaped leaves year-round, which allows them to start photosynthesis earlier in the spring than deciduous trees. Seasonal changes in plant populations can also be observed based on their resistance to drought or pests, with some species thriving in warm temperatures while others do better in the cold.
For instance, drought-resistant plants are likely to thrive in warm, dry climates but may struggle in cold temperatures. Conversely, pest-resistant plants generally fare better in warm conditions where they can outcompete other species. Different adaptations are seen in plants that have evolved to conserve energy, such as flowering plants that can withstand temperatures below freezing or above 40°C. Ultimately, whether a plant species thrives or declines in a particular climate depends on its specific adaptations and the prevailing environmental conditions.