Question

How do plants defend against pathogens?

Answer 1

Plants have several mechanisms to defend against pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Some common defense mechanisms include:

1. Physical barriers: Plants have physical barriers like tough cell walls, waxy cuticles, and thorns that help prevent pathogens from entering their tissues.

2. Chemical defenses: Plants produce a variety of chemical compounds such as phytoalexins, terpenoids, and alkaloids that have antimicrobial properties and can deter or kill pathogens.

3. Immune response: Plants have an innate immune system that can recognize and respond to pathogens. This response can involve signaling pathways, production of defense proteins, and cell death to contain the infection.

4. Beneficial microbes: Some plants form symbiotic relationships with beneficial microbes like mycorrhizal fungi and rhizobia that can help protect against pathogens by competing for resources or producing antimicrobial compounds.

By utilizing these defense mechanisms, plants can effectively protect themselves against a wide range of pathogens and maintain their health and productivity.

Answer 2

Plants defend against pathogens through various defense mechanisms such as physical barriers like the plant cuticle and cell walls, chemical defenses like production of antimicrobial compounds, and the activation of defense-related genes to mount a systemic response against pathogens. Additionally, plants also have mechanisms like producing reactive oxygen species and phytoalexins to protect themselves from pathogens.