A plant biologist discovers a new species of plant in the ashes of a recent forest fire along the sides of a steep mountain range. It is fall, and temperatures are dropping below freezing. The biologist cannot stay in the field to observe the plant. What can he infer about the plant’s reproductive strategy, based on his recent observations? 1) The plant will produce flowers because at this altitude there is sufficient sunlight.

2) The plant will produce cones because cones will mature into adult plants more rapidly.

3) The plant will produce cones because cones allow for seed dispersal during all seasons.

4) The plant will produce flowers because flowers can protect the seeds from extreme conditions.