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Physical plant defences: cell walls, cuticle, bark

Infection and response • Plant disease (biology only)

Key concepts

What you'll likely be quizzed about

  • The cell wall is a rigid outer layer surrounding plant cells, primarily made of cellulose, a long-chain carbohydrate polymer.
  • This structure enhances wall strength and resists mechanical penetration by pathogens, limiting their access to living tissues.
  • Damage to the cell wall from wounds, insects, or environmental stress can allow opportunistic pathogens to breach this barrier.
  • The cell wall also provides structural support, aiding in turgidity and minimizing gaps for pathogen entry.

Flashcards

Test your knowledge with interactive flashcards

How does a cellulose wall reduce infection?

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A strong cellulose wall resists mechanical penetration, limiting pathogen access to living cells.

Key notes

Important points to keep in mind

Cellulose strengthens plant cell walls.

Waxy cuticle repels water, reducing pathogen risk.

Bark protects stems and sheds pathogens.

Stomata and wounds are main entry points for pathogens.

Wet surfaces increase fungal and bacterial infection risk.

Plants thicken cell walls near infection sites.

Young tissues lack full protection and are more vulnerable.

Insect feeding often precedes successful pathogen invasion.

Physical defences act before chemical responses are needed.

Damage to barriers limits physical defence effectiveness.

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