Q:
What is the function of a raphide crystal?
A:
Quick Answer
A raphide crystal occurs in plant cells, and its main function is to repel animals away from plants. The crystals are shaped like needles, and are formed from calcium oxalate.
Continue Reading
Credit:
Stan Shebs
CC-BY-SA 3.0
Full Answer
Raphides and raphide crystals are found in more than 200 different species of plants. Raphides have a sharp end, and when consumed, release a toxin that is harmful to a plant's predator. Stinging and burning can occur in the mouth of a predator who has eaten a raphide crystal, and esophageal damage can occur. A lethal dose of raphide crystal to an animal like a field mouse is 15 mg/kg.
Learn more about BotanySources:
Related Questions
-
Q:
Why are some plants considered ornamental in one plant hardiness zone and invasive in others?
A: When plants are planted outside of their normal hardiness zone, there may be no animals or other plants to keep them from taking over. The plants end up gr... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
Do plants have an excretory system?
A: While plants do release some matter, they do not have a complex excretory system that eliminates waste in the same way that animals like dogs and humans ha... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
How does pollination differ between angiosperms and gymnosperms?
A: Pollination differs between angiosperms and gymnosperms in that most angiosperms entice animals to carry their pollen from plant to plant, while most gymno... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
What are the producers of the temperate rain forest?
A: The primary producers of the temperate rain forest are the plants that use chlorophyll to create food for their growth and also for animals, explains World... Full Answer >Filed Under:
