The leaves of which of the following plants fold up on being touched?a...
The leaves of mimosa plant fold up quickly when touched with a hand. This is known as. Thigmonasty
View all questions of this test
The leaves of which of the following plants fold up on being touched?a...
Introduction
The phenomenon of leaves folding upon touch is most notably observed in the Mimosa plant, also known as Mimosa pudica. This unique response is a fascinating example of plant behavior.
Understanding the Mimosa Plant
- The Mimosa plant is often referred to as the "sensitive plant" because of its remarkable ability to react to touch.
- When the leaves are touched, they fold inward and droop, appearing to close up. This reaction is a defense mechanism against herbivores and environmental stress.
Mechanism of Response
- The folding of leaves occurs due to a rapid loss of turgor pressure in the leaf cells.
- Specialized cells at the base of each leaf leaflet respond to touch by allowing water to exit, leading to a decrease in pressure and causing the leaves to fold.
Purpose of the Reaction
- This quick response serves various purposes:
- Protection: By closing up, the plant may deter herbivores from eating it.
- Survival: It helps the plant conserve water during adverse conditions.
Comparison with Other Plants
- Unlike the Mimosa plant, plants like the mango, money, and mustard do not exhibit this rapid folding response when touched.
- These plants have different adaptations and survival strategies that do not involve such immediate reactions.
Conclusion
In summary, the Mimosa plant stands out due to its unique ability to fold its leaves upon touch, showcasing an intriguing aspect of plant behavior that aids in its survival and protection.