Plant Communication: Electrical Signals
- Sylvia Rose
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
Plants have sophisticated systems of communication. Electric signaling is one of the ways plants express themselves. They generate and transmit signals, much like the nervous system functions in animals.
Plants generate and transmit electrical impulses throughout their bodies. Signals are created by fluctuations in concentrations of ions like calcium
(Ca2+) and chloride (Cl-) across cell membranes.
Known as action potentials and variation potentials, the electrical impulses travel in the vascular system or phloem. Signals pass through a network of individual cells. They enable plants to react to changes like stress, damage and potential threats.
When a plant detects a stimulus, it triggers reactions to alter the flow of ions and create electrical impulses. Both calcium, a metal, and chloride are electrolytes, or charged ions.
In solid form (calcium chloride), the ions are fixed. When dissolved or molten, ions enter a free-moving state and interact.
Reactions to signals include gene expression changes, activating defenses or closing stomata to minimize water loss. Plants need balanced calcium levels. Too much can injure cells, while too little impedes stress responses.
Electrical Signal Triggers
Herbivore attack: Damage of plant parts by insects and other animals like deer, giraffes and rabbits send a volley of ions through plant cells. This creates an electrical signal to alert other parts of the plant.
A caterpillar eating a leaf causes a surge of ions. Plant defenses include toughening of structures and producing unpleasant tastes and/or toxic effects. Some plants can "call" pest predators like parasitic wasps.
Pathogen Infection: Presence of harmful bacteria or fungi stimulate electric signals to activate defense mechanisms and immune response. A plant cell damaged by pathogens like fungi or bacteria sends alerts to nearby cells.
Plants warn others of impending danger by releasing chemicals. Electrical signals prepare the plant, enabling it to produce and emit volatile compounds.
Changes in Light: Fluctuations in light intensity or spectrum can influence ion channel activity. Electrical signals regulate photosynthesis and other light-dependent processes.
Temperature Shifts: Abrupt changes in temperature initiate protective mechanisms, such as production of heat-shock proteins or antifreeze compounds.
Water Availability: Drought stress affects ion balance within plant cells. Signals regulate water conservation, such as stomatal closure. Stomata also close when it rains, to prevent the leaves from getting waterlogged.
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