Which of the following is not an example of a defence used by plants against herbivores?

Options

A. Production of caffeine, tannin, quinine.
B. More production of non-woody tissues
C. Productions of hairs, thorns, spines
D. Production of hormone-like chemicals that interfere with insect metaphorphosis.

Answer

To determine which of the following is not an example of a defense used by plants against herbivores, we can analyze the options provided one by one. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the solution:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understand the Question**: The question asks which option does not represent a defense mechanism that plants use against herbivores.

2. **Analyze the First Option**:
- **Production of Caffeine, Tannins, and Quinine**:
- These are secondary metabolites produced by plants.
- They disrupt the physiology of herbivores, making it difficult for them to consume the plant.
- **Conclusion**: This is a defense mechanism.

3. **Analyze the Second Option**:
- **More Production of Non-Buddy Tissues**:
- Non-buddy tissues are softer and more palatable for herbivores.
- If a plant produces more non-buddy tissues, it would be easier for herbivores to consume it.
- **Conclusion**: This is NOT a defense mechanism.

4. **Analyze the Third Option**:
- **Production of Hairs, Thorns, and Spines**:
- These structures physically deter herbivores from feeding.
- They can cause injury to herbivores, making them less likely to eat the plant.
- **Conclusion**: This is a defense mechanism.

5. **Analyze the Fourth Option**:
- **Production of Hormone-like Chemicals that Interfere with Insect Metamorphosis**:
- These chemicals can disrupt the life cycle of insects, preventing them from feeding effectively.
- **Conclusion**: This is a defense mechanism.

6. **Final Conclusion**:
- After analyzing all options, the second option, "more production of non-buddy tissues," is the only one that does not represent a defense mechanism against herbivores. Therefore, the correct answer is option 2.