Question

Plant Chemical Adaptations

Physical adaptations are one way plants have become well-adapted to specific environmental conditions. For example, cacti have spines in place of leaves to prevent water loss in the arid conditions of the desert, and deciduous trees lose their leaves in the fall to survive cold weather conditions over the winter. Chemical adaptations are another means for plant protection. Many plants produce toxic or noxious compounds to protect themselves from insects or animals that would eat them, to reduce competition from other plants, or even to change the response of pollinators. Humans analyze and harvest these compounds for our own benefit.

Choose ONE of the following compounds:

Caffeine

Answer these four questions:

1. Describe the compound and in what plant(s) it is found.
2. Explain how this compound provides protection for the plant.
3. Does the compound provide any other benefits for the plant, such as enhanced pollination?
4. What effect does the compound have on humans?

Follow these guidelines for your paper:

Utilize at least 1 credible source to support the arguments presented in the paper. Make sure you cite appropriately within your paper, and list the reference(s) in APA format on your Reference page.  

Your paper should be 1–2 pages in length, not counting the Title page and Reference page.

Answer 1

Caffeine is a compound of class methylxanthine. It is a psychoactive drug for humans which affect the central nervous system. It is found in coffee, cocoa, black tea plants.

This is a toxic substance which is stored in vacuoles. It protects the leaves of the plants from insects, because it is poisonous to them.

Caffeine provides help in pollination sometimes when some bees which like caffeine nectar to make honey, get involved in pollination of flowers.

It has psychoactive role due to which we feel more energetic and active. But too much caffeine may lead to insomnia and nervousness.

Thanks.