Plant Physical Defences Flashcards

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In biology, what is a physical defence in a plant?

It is a structure or barrier in the plant that helps stop pathogens getting in.

They help to prevent communicable (infectious) diseases caused by pathogens such as fungi, bacteria and viruses.

Cellulose cell walls, a tough waxy cuticle on leaves, and layers of dead cells such as bark on stems.

They form a strong barrier around each cell that makes it hard for pathogens to get inside.

It covers the surface so pathogens and water carrying them cannot easily pass through.

Bark is a thick, tough layer of dead cells that acts as a barrier to stop pathogens reaching the living tissues inside.

Pathogens on the surface are lost with the dead cells, so they cannot stay on the plant.

They are general (non-specific) defences that help protect against many different pathogens.

By blocking entry, fewer plants become infected, so there are fewer sources of pathogens to spread to others.