What is the Difference Between Anaerobic Respiration in Plants and Animals?

The main difference between anaerobic respiration in plants and animals lies in the end products of the process. Anaerobic respiration is a process that breaks down glucose molecules partially and produces less energy compared to aerobic respiration. Here are the key differences between anaerobic respiration in plants and animals:

1. End Products: In plants, the end products of anaerobic respiration are ethanol, carbon dioxide, and ATP. In animals, the primary end product is lactic acid, which is later oxidized to water and carbon dioxide.
2. Heat Energy Released: Anaerobic respiration in plants releases more heat energy than in animals.
3. Carbon Dioxide Evolution: In anaerobic respiration in plants, carbon dioxide is evolved. In contrast, carbon dioxide is not evolved during anaerobic respiration in animals.
4. Foaming: Foaming occurs in plants due to the release of carbon dioxide during anaerobic respiration. This does not happen in animals.
5. Danger to the Organism: Anaerobic respiration in plants can be dangerous for the plant, whereas anaerobic respiration in animals may not be as dangerous.

Despite these differences, both plants and animals use anaerobic respiration as a way to produce energy in the absence of oxygen.

Comparative Table: Anaerobic Respiration in Plants vs Animals

The main differences between anaerobic respiration in plants and animals are the products formed and the cells where the process occurs. Here is a table summarizing the differences:

Both plants and animals can undergo anaerobic respiration, also known as fermentation, when oxygen is not available. In plants, this process results in the production of ethanol and carbon dioxide, while in animals, it results in the production of lactic acid. The enzymes and coenzymes involved in the process are also different between the two.