How Plants Defend Themselves

Plants have developed various defense mechanisms to avoid being eaten by predators. These include physical defenses like spines and unique shapes, touch-sensitive reactions like those of the mimosa plant, and chemical defenses such as the stinging nettles. Each adaptation helps plants survive in their environment despite being immobile.

What is the primary purpose of the Acacia tree's spines?

• To attract pollinators

• To deter grazers like giraffes

• To store water

• To support climbing plants

How do some Acacia trees prevent giraffes from eating all their leaves?

• By producing a sticky sap

• By developing a bitter taste

• By growing underground

• By forming an umbrella shape

What unique response does the mimosa plant have to being touched?

• It changes color

• It grows faster

• It closes its leaves

• It releases a foul odor

What is the function of the stingers on nettles?

• To store nutrients

• To attract insects

• To absorb sunlight

• To inject toxins

How do nettle stingers deliver their toxins?

• Via a hollow hair that breaks off

• Through a sticky sap

• Through a sharp leaf edge

• By releasing spores