Plant defence responses

• What are the three main defense systems in plants?

  Physical responses, chemical responses, mechanical responses
• How do plants physically defend themselves against microorganisms?

  By having a cellulose cell wall
• What is the function of the waxy cuticle on leaves?

  To protect against microorganism penetration
• What role do dead cells around stems play in plant defense?

  They act as a barrier to microorganisms
• What happens to bark as it ages?

  It falls off and is replaced by fresh bark
• What is the chemical response in plants?

  Release of chemicals to protect against attack
• What type of chemicals can plants release to deter herbivores?

  Poisons
• What is the purpose of thorns in plants?

  To protect against herbivore consumption
• How do hairs on some plants serve as a defense mechanism?

  They irritate the mouths of herbivores
• What is the significance of plants that droop or curl when touched?

  They may scare herbivores by moving
• What is mimicry in plant defense?

  Plants resemble other plants to avoid being eaten
• What is the white dead nettle's defense mechanism?

  It mimics the stinging nettle
• Why are herbivores less likely to eat white dead nettle?

  They mistake it for the stinging nettle
• What are the types of attacks plants can face?

  • Microorganisms (viruses, fungi)
  • Insects
  • Herbivores (animals)
• What are the components of physical responses in plants?

  1. Cellulose cell wall
  2. Waxy cuticle
  3. Layers of dead cells (bark)
• What are the components of chemical responses in plants?

  • Release of antibacterial chemicals
  • Release of poisons to deter herbivores
• What are the components of mechanical defense systems in plants?

  1. Thorns or sharp hairs
  2. Hairs that irritate herbivores
  3. Movement of leaves when touched
  4. Mimicry of other plants