The Monkey-Puzzle Tree 
A striking example of spines for protection, this tree 
bears but few seeds and protects them, with a spiny armor, 
from destruction by monkeys. The nuts are borne at, or very near 
the top, and the spines are so sharp that it is impossible for 
any animal to climb the tree. Where the cactus 
spines are designed to protect the plant itself, 
the monkey-puzzle spines are designed to 
protect the offspring of the plant, 
represented by its seed. 
