Poisonous plants, palatable plants

  • Thread starter Loren Booda
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In summary, plants rely on a variety of mechanisms to disperse their seeds, including abiotic and biotic vectors. The mode of seed dispersal is influenced by the plant's toxicity, with some methods only available to nonpoisonous plants. Poisonous plants may also use their toxicity as a means of dispersal, such as through serotiny or by evolving to be poisonous to certain browsing species.
  • #1
Loren Booda
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How does whether plants are poisonous or nonpoisonous affect their dispersal of seeds?
 
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Well, think of some of the ways in which plants go about dispersing their seeds. Which avenues are available to nonpoisonous plants that are not available to poisonous plants? Similarly, how might being poisonous help some of these methods of dispersal?
 
  • #3
Ygggdrasil said:
Well, think of some of the ways in which plants go about dispersing their seeds. Which avenues are available to nonpoisonous plants that are not available to poisonous plants? Similarly, how might being poisonous help some of these methods of dispersal?

You basically restated my original question.
 
  • #4
Bysics said:
Plants have limited mobility and consequently rely upon a variety of dispersal vectors to transport their propagules, including both abiotic and biotic vectors. Seeds can be dispersed away from the parent plant individually or collectively, as well as dispersed in both space and time. The patterns of seed dispersal are determined in large part by the dispersal mechanism and this has important implications for the demographic and genetic structure of plant populations, as well as migration patterns and species interactions. There are five main modes of seed dispersal: gravity, wind, ballistic, water and by animals. Some plants are serotinous and only disperse their seeds in response to an environmental stimulus.

Thanks for a general description of dispersal. How would poison affect its modes?
 
  • #5
For instance, how would one berry evolve to be poisonous to one browsing species, and edible to another?
 

1. What makes a plant poisonous?

Plants can be poisonous for a variety of reasons. Some produce toxic chemicals to protect themselves from herbivores, while others may absorb toxins from the soil or air. The concentration and combination of these toxins can determine the level of toxicity in a plant. Additionally, some plants may only be poisonous to certain animals or in certain parts of the plant.

2. How can you tell if a plant is poisonous?

It can be difficult to determine if a plant is poisonous just by looking at it. Some common signs of poisonous plants include a bitter or unpleasant taste, unusual colors or patterns, and thorns or spines. However, the best way to identify a poisonous plant is to consult a reputable source, such as a field guide or expert, before consuming or handling it.

3. Are all poisonous plants deadly?

No, not all poisonous plants are deadly. The level of toxicity can vary greatly among different plants, and some may only cause mild symptoms such as skin irritation or upset stomach. However, it is important to always treat any poisonous plant with caution and avoid consuming or handling it if possible.

4. Are there any benefits to eating poisonous plants?

While some plants may have medicinal properties, it is not recommended to consume any plant that is known to be poisonous. The potential risks and side effects outweigh any potential benefits. It is best to stick to known edible plants or consult a professional herbalist before consuming any potentially harmful plants.

5. Can poisonous plants be used for anything?

Some poisonous plants have been used for medicinal or cultural purposes, but it is not recommended to use these plants without proper knowledge and guidance. Some plants may also be used for pest control or as natural dyes, but caution should always be taken when handling and using these plants.

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