What is the Difference Between Tendrils and Spine?

The main difference between tendrils and spines lies in their structure and function:

1. Structure:

• Tendrils are thread-like structures that are modifications of leaves, terminal buds, and floral buds. They are derived from leaves, leaflets, leaf tips, or leaf stipules and are specialized to anchor and support climbing plants.
• Spines are slender, sharp-pointed structures that are modifications of leaves. They are stiff, rigid structures with a sharp point, providing protection against herbivores.

1. Function:

• Tendrils act as a support and anchorage for climbing plants, such as sweet peas, squash, and grapes. They are sensitive to touch and chemical agents, causing them to fold, twirl, and curve around the object that stimulates them.
• Spines protect plants from herbivore action, serving as a defense mechanism against predators. They are found in plants like cacti and prickly pears.

1. Sensitivity:

• Tendrils are sensitive to touch and chemical stimuli, responding to them by wrapping, twisting, and bending around the stimulating object.
• Spines do not show sensitivity.

Examples of plants with tendrils include sweet peas, squash, and cucumbers, while examples of plants with spines include cacti and prickly pears.

Comparative Table: Tendrils vs Spine

Tendrils and spines are specialized plant structures that serve different purposes. Here is a table comparing their differences:

Tendrils are thread-like structures that grow from the stem's internodes and provide support and anchorage for climbing plants. They are sensitive to touch and chemical stimuli, causing them to wrap, twist, and bend around the stimulating object. On the other hand, spines are sharp, slender structures that are modifications of leaves, and they serve as a protective shield against herbivores.