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. 



