Overview
Plants have evolved a variety of defenses to protect themselves from herbivores, which are animals that eat plants. These defenses can be physical, like thorns and spines, or chemical, such as toxins and repellents. Physical defenses deter herbivores by causing injury, while chemical defenses can ma...
Key Terms
Example: Roses have thorns that can prick animals.
Example: Some plants produce toxins that make them unpalatable.
Example: Cows and rabbits are common herbivores.
Example: Plants and their herbivores often evolve together.
Example: Cacti have spines to protect against animals.
Example: The poison ivy plant contains toxins that cause skin irritation.
Related Topics
Key Concepts
ThornsChemical DefensesHerbivore AdaptationsPlant Survival Strategies