The Russian thistle, commonly known as the tumbleweed, is a big, round plant with many branches and short, stiff leaves. This plant spreads a large number of seeds when it breaks off from its stalk. The thistle is most likely found in what kind of environment?

The questions have been asked in several important state and regional science exams in the United States. For example: TAKS-Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills, New York State Educational Department Regents exams, California Standards Test, etc.