Many plants have evolved distinct defense adaptations to survive and thrive.
The gympie-gympie plant (Dendrocnide moroides) is covered in fine, hollow silica hairs that act like self-injecting syringes. When brushed against, these fragile hairs penetrate the skin of animals and release a highly stable neurotoxin called moroidin, causing excruciating, long-lasting pain.
Explain how the gympie-gympie plant uses both physical (mechanical) and chemical defenses to protect itself from herbivores.
The white dead-nettle (Lamium album) is completely harmless and does not possess stinging hairs, but it grows in similar habitats and develops leaves that are visually indistinguishable from those of stinging nettles.
What type of defense adaptation is this?
An orchard manager noticed that citrus trees (Citrus sinensis) exhibited severe chlorosis (yellowing of the leaves) and stunted growth. One potential explanation is a deficiency of magnesium ions in the soil.
Explain two other possible reasons for the chlorosis and stunted growth in these citrus trees. Do not refer to magnesium ions in your answer.
Alder trees (Alnus glutinosa) have specialized root nodules containing symbiotic actinobacteria of the genus Frankia. These bacteria are capable of converting atmospheric nitrogen gas into bioavailable ammonia.
Suggest how the Frankia bacteria benefit from living inside the root nodules of the alder tree.
Explain how the alder tree benefits from the presence of these bacteria in its roots.
For hundreds of years, medicinal compounds have been discovered and extracted from plants.
Which plant-derived medicinal drug, commonly used as a painkiller and to reduce inflammation, was originally extracted from willow bark? Choose one option: