Plants have developed various mechanisms to defend themselves against herbivores. Some common defense mechanisms include:
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Chemical defenses: Plants produce toxic compounds to deter herbivores from feeding on them. Examples of chemical defenses include alkaloids, tannins, and terpenes.
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Physical defenses: Plants have physical structures such as thorns, spines, and tough leaves that make it difficult for herbivores to eat them.
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Indirect defenses: Plants can also attract predators of herbivores, such as predatory insects, to help protect them.
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Plant secondary metabolites: Plants produce secondary metabolites that can be toxic or unpalatable to herbivores.
Overall, plants have evolved a combination of strategies to protect themselves from being eaten by herbivores.