Plant Defence Responses (T)

• What are the three main defense systems that plants have against attack?

  Physical responses, chemical responses, and mechanical responses
• What are the physical responses of plants to defend against attacks?

  • Cellulose cell wall
  • Waxy cuticle
  • Layers of dead cells (e.g., bark)
• What is the function of the cellulose cell wall in plants?

  It is difficult for microorganisms to penetrate
• What is the role of the waxy cuticle on leaves?

  It protects the plant by being difficult for microorganisms to penetrate
• How does bark serve as a defense mechanism for plants?

  Bark provides a barrier to entry by microorganisms
• What are the chemical responses of plants to defend against attacks?

  • Release of antibacterial chemicals
  • Release of poisons to deter herbivores
• What are the mechanical responses of plants to defend against attacks?

  • Thorns or hairs
  • Leaves that droop or curl when touched
  • Mimicry (e.g., resembling stinging nettles)
• What is the purpose of thorns or hairs on plants?

  To protect the plant from being eaten by herbivores
• How do some plants use movement as a defense mechanism?

  They may scare herbivores by moving when touched
• What is mimicry in plant defense, and how does it work?

  It helps protect plants by resembling harmful plants