Plant defences

• What is a physical defence that plants have against pathogens?

  The cellulose cell wall makes it harder for pathogens to enter.
• How does the rough waxy cuticle serve as a plant defence?

  It acts as an additional barrier against pathogens.
• What type of chemicals do many plants produce for chemical defence?

  Anti-microbial chemicals.
• What is the purpose of the poisons produced by some plants like foxglove and nettles?

  They deter herbivores from eating them.
• What happens if herbivores eat plants that produce poisons?

  Excess ill is unlikely to make them come back again.
• What is a mechanical defence that plants use?

  Hairs on leaves.
• How do hairs and thorns serve as a defence for plants?

  They deter animals from eating the plant by hurting them.
• What is an example of a plant that has thorns?

  A rose stem.
• What is mimicry in the context of plant defences?

  It is when a plant copies something to appear off-putting to animals.
• What are the three main types of plant defences against herbivores and pathogens?

  • Physical defences: cellulose cell wall, waxy cuticle
  • Chemical defences: anti-microbial chemicals, poisons
  • Mechanical defences: hairs, thorns, mimicry