b Flashcards
What are signs that a plant may be sick?
Signs of a sick plant include stunted growth, spots on leaves, areas of decay, growths that shouldn’t be there, malformed stems/leaves, discolouration, and presence of pests.
What may cause stunted growth in plants?
Stunted growth may be caused by a deficiency in nitrates, which are needed to make protein.
What is chlorosis in plants?
Chlorosis is a discolouration caused by a deficiency in magnesium, which is used to make chlorophyll.
How can you identify a specific plant disease?
You can identify a specific plant disease by checking gardening books/websites, taking infected plants to a lab, or using testing kits containing monoclonal antibodies.
What are physical defences plants use against disease?
Plants use physical defences such as cellulose cell walls, tough waxy cuticles on leaves, and layers of dead cells around stems.
What are some chemical defences plants have?
Plants have antibacterial chemicals and poisons to deter herbivorous animals from eating them.
What are mechanical adaptations plants use for defence?
Mechanical adaptations include thorns and hairs to deter animals, leaves that droop or curl when touched, and mimicry to trick animals into thinking they are poisonous.
