Many mammals have skins and mucous membranes that are sensitive to secretions of plants like poison oak. These secondary compounds are primarily adaptations that function in which of the following ways?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The secondary compounds produced by plants such as poison oak serve as chemical defenses to deter herbivores from eating them, thereby inhibiting herbivory. These compounds can cause irritation or harm to animals that come into contact with them, reducing the likelihood of the plant being eaten.

Many Mammals Have Skins and Mucous Membranes That Are Sensitive