Question

Describe any three chemical defence mechanisms in plants against herbivores in population interaction.

Answer 1

1. Toxic and unpleasant substances are produced and stored by many plants, which have an impact on herbivores.
2. When these fluids are ingested, they prevent the predator from feeding or digesting, interfere with reproduction, or even kill it.
3. Cardiac glycosides, which are extremely hazardous to grazers, are produced by plants such as Calotropis.
4. Plants develop a vast range of secondary metabolites that serve as defences against browsers and grazers, including nicotine, caffeine, quinine, strychnine, opium, etc.