Plant Signaling
Plant signaling refers to the complex ways in which plants communicate internally and with their environment. This process involves various chemical signals, such as hormones like auxins, gibberellins, and abscisic acid, which help regulate growth, development, and responses to stress. These signals can trigger changes in gene expression, allowing plants to adapt to their surroundings.
Additionally, plants can respond to external stimuli through signaling pathways. For example, when exposed to light, plants use photoreceptors to detect changes and adjust their growth direction, a phenomenon known as phototropism. Similarly, when under attack from pests, plants can release volatile organic compounds to warn neighboring plants, enhancing their defense mechanisms.