Question

How do plants defend themselves against herbivores in nature?

Answer 1

Plants have evolved various mechanisms to defend themselves against herbivores in nature. Some common defense mechanisms include:

1. Physical barriers such as thorns, spines, and tough leaves that deter herbivores from feeding.
2. Chemical defenses such as toxins and bitter-tasting compounds that make the plant unpalatable or even harmful to herbivores.
3. Indirect defenses like emitting volatile compounds to attract natural enemies of herbivores, such as predators or parasites.
4. Structural defenses like producing tough cell walls or trichomes (small hairs) that can physically impede herbivore feeding. These defense mechanisms help plants survive and thrive in their natural environment despite the presence of herbivores.