Curious Minute answer

What lets a saguaro cactus expand after a desert rain?

The answer

Pleated ribs

Send this minute

Know someone who'd pause on this one? Send them the question.

More Curious Minute

Try today's live question, or browse previous answers when you want another quick dive.

Keep the next minute coming

Like this answer? Get tomorrow's question around 8 AM.

Why it's right

The pleated ribs of a saguaro cactus allow it to expand when it takes in water and contract during dry periods.

Did you know?

Saguaros are native to the Sonoran Desert.

How readers answered

75%

25%

One more thing.

Animal-based nutrition in a delicious once-daily shake.

We may earn a commission.