Question:

Secondary metabolites like glucosinolates are produced by cabbage to

Show Hint

Secondary metabolites = Defense Examples: Alkaloids, tannins, glucosinolates
Updated On: May 8, 2026
  • protect it from many pests
  • attracts insects for pollination
  • kills weeds around it
  • improve soil fertilization
Show Solution
collegedunia
Verified By Collegedunia

The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation


Concept: Secondary metabolites are organic compounds that are not directly involved in growth and development but play important ecological roles.
• They help plants defend against herbivores, pathogens, and pests.
• Glucosinolates are sulfur-containing compounds found in plants like cabbage.
• On tissue damage, they produce toxic substances that deter herbivores.

Step 1:
Understand function of secondary metabolites.
They are mainly involved in defense mechanisms.

Step 2:
Role of glucosinolates.
They produce toxic compounds (e.g., mustard oils) that repel or harm insects and herbivores.

Step 3:
Analyze options.
• (A) Protection from pests: Correct
• (B) Pollination: Involves nectar/colour, not toxins
• (C) Weed killing: Allelopathy (different compounds)
• (D) Soil fertilization: Not related

Step 4:
Conclusion.
Thus, glucosinolates help in protecting the plant from pests. Final Answer: Option (A)
Was this answer helpful?
0
0