Comprehension Cloze — Practice Mode

Deep in the forests of California stand some of the most magnificent trees on Earth – the giant sequoias. These ancient giants can for over 3,000 years and grow to of more than 80 metres. What makes these trees truly special is their incredible to survive forest fires. While most trees would be destroyed by flames, giant sequoias have developed thick, fire-resistant bark that can be up to 60 centimetres thick. This natural armour the tree's living tissue from heat damage. Surprisingly, giant sequoias actually depend forest fires to reproduce. The intense heat from fires causes their cones to open and thousands of tiny seeds. The fire also wipes competing plants and creates the perfect soil conditions for new sequoia seedlings to grow. These remarkable trees have a unique root system that spreads horizontally instead of growing underground. Although the roots extend only about two metres down, they can spread over 30 metres all directions. This wide network helps the massive trees stay upright storms and strong winds. Giant sequoias grow incredibly slowly, adding only about one centimetre to their diameter each year. However, they stop growing throughout their entire lifespan. Some of the largest specimens as much as 2,000 tonnes – equivalent to about 400 elephants! Scientists believe climate change must be slowed down because it poses a serious to these ancient giants. Higher temperatures and changing rainfall patterns could make it for young sequoias to survive.