Which of the following is most responsible for the biochemical diversity of plants?
A) Adaptations to different soils
B) Adaptations to different temperature regimes
C) Adaptations to different levels of moisture
D) Coevolution with herbivores
E) Coevolution with commensals

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Coevolution with herbivores has likely driven the biochemical diversity of plants, as they have evolved a variety of chemical defenses to deter herbivory. This has led to a wide range of secondary metabolites that are unique to different plant species or families. Adaptations to different soils, temperature regimes, and levels of moisture are also important drivers of plant diversity, but they are not as directly linked to biochemical diversity as coevolution with herbivores. Coevolution with commensals may have some impact on biochemical diversity, but it is less well-studied than coevolution with herbivores.

Which of the Following Is Most Responsible for the Biochemical