CAIE A Level Biology 9700 · Control and coordination
The Venus fly trap (Dionaea muscipula) closes its modified leaves rapidly in response to mechanical stimulation of its trigger hairs. Describe the sequence of events from the initial stimulation of the trigger hairs to the closure of the leaf. Use your knowledge of the roles of auxin and gibberellin in other plant processes to explain why the closure of the Venus fly trap does not involve cell expansion.
5 marks, so the mark scheme is looking for about 5 separate creditworthy points. Making the same point twice in different words earns it once.
Describe means: Say what happens or what something is like, in order and with detail. You are not being asked why. If there is data, quote it: name the trend, then give figures with units at the points where it changes.
Written by Markquill to follow the Cambridge International syllabus. Markquill is independent and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Cambridge International.