Because these ecosystems are susceptible to putrefaction, Effinger’s tree frog tadpoles avoid defecating until after they’ve left them. For 10 points each:
[10h] Name these small, isolated ecosystems that form in water-collecting areas of non-aquatic plants, such as in pitcher plants and tree hollows.
ANSWER: phytotelmata
[10m] Plants in this family often form phytotelmata because their rosette leaf pattern creates a tank for rainwater and organic debris. This family names an enzyme extract in pineapple juice that can be used as a meat tenderizer.
ANSWER: bromeliads [or Bromeliaceae; prompt on bromelain]
[10e] A 2022 paper unexpectedly found these pollutants in teasel phytotelmata, indicating that phytotelmata may be useful indicators of these pollutants’ effects. These synthetic pollutants, whose radius can be as small as 1 nanometer, include remnants of glitter, clothing, and bottles.
ANSWER: microplastics [prompt on plastics]
<S, Biology>