The aim of this course is to provide knowledge about the morphological, anatomical, physiological, biochemical, and ecological defense mechanisms developed by plants against environmental conditions, herbivores, pathogens, and other stress factors. The course examines plant defense strategies that enhance survival and reproductive success and evaluates their ecological, agricultural, and biotechnological significance.

This course covers the concept and evolution of plant defense strategies. Morphological and anatomical defense mechanisms such as thorns, trichomes, tough leaves, thick cuticles, bark formation, and leaf modifications are examined. The roles of secondary metabolites including alkaloids, terpenoids, phenolic compounds, tannins, and essential oils in plant defense are also discussed. The course further explores plant-herbivore and plant-pathogen interactions, allelopathy, communication through volatile organic compounds, defense signaling pathways, systemic acquired resistance mechanisms, and adaptations to environmental stress. Defense strategies are illustrated through examples such as cactus spines, stinging nettle trichomes, latex secretion in Euphorbia species, essential oil production in aromatic plants, leaf movements in Mimosa pudica, and specialized adaptations of carnivorous plants.