How Do Plants Protect Themselves Against Animal Attacks?

Abstract

Natural systems are made up of countless interactions between living beings. One of the most essential interactions is when a plant is eaten by an animal. Why is this so important? When plants are eaten, their growth and ability to reproduce decrease, and we all know that plants are critical because they provide us with food, medicine, and wood. They also provide homes for other living things, produce the oxygen we breathe, keep soils healthy, regulate humidity, and contribute to climate stability. Plants have also developed smart strategies to defend themselves from animal attacks. Some plants have evolved protective structures like thorns and thick leaves, while others have produced defensive chemicals. Together, plant protection mechanisms can reduce or prevent the damage that plant predators may cause. In this article, you will learn many strategies plants evolved to protect themselves from plant-eating animals.