plant responses

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

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

  Through cellulose cell walls and waxy cuticles
• 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 against penetration by microorganisms
• What happens to bark as it ages?

  It falls off and is replaced by fresh bark
• What are chemical responses in plants?

  Releasing chemicals to protect against attacks
• What type of chemicals can plants release to deter herbivores?

  Poisonous chemicals
• What is the mechanical defense system in plants?

  Physical structures that deter herbivores
• How do thorns protect plants from herbivores?

  They provide a sharp barrier against eating
• What effect do irritating hairs on plants have on herbivores?

  They make the plant difficult to eat
• What happens to plants with leaves that droop or curl when touched?

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

  Resembling other plants to avoid being eaten
• How does the white dead nettle protect itself?

  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 three types of plant defense responses?

  • Physical responses
  • Chemical responses
  • Mechanical responses
• What are the key features of physical defenses in plants?

  • Cellulose cell walls
  • Waxy cuticles
  • Bark as a barrier
• What are the key features of chemical defenses in plants?

  • Release of antibacterial chemicals
  • Production of poisons to deter herbivores
• What are the key features of mechanical defenses in plants?

  • Thorns and sharp hairs
  • Leaves that droop or curl
  • Mimicry of other plants