While plants might seem like totally innocuous life forms, they have surprising means of defending themselves against threats. We might have a cursory knowledge of more threatening-sounding varieties, such as insect-devouring or poisonous species. However, even a common tomato plant, which might appear to be a harmless addition to many household gardens, has its means of defense.
Plants must deter a vast array of predators who threaten their existence. This could include microscopic bacteria that aren't visible to the naked eye, minuscule insects, or much larger herbivores. When an aphid targets a tomato plant, it sucks away its nutrients, which will eventually kill the plant. When this happens, not only does the tomato defend itself with chemical and physical means, but it also signals nearby plants to ready themselves as well. Some plants release irritating histamines that deter their opponents. Others, such as kiwi or pineapple, punish their aggressor after they've been consumed by producing raphides, or tiny, sharp, crystals, that create wounds inside the mouth as they're being chewed. A mimosa plant has a system in place where contact from an outside force causes water cells to contract inside the plant, making its leaves close in to seal up its weak spots.
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