A Review on Understanding the Plant’s Secret Language for Communication and its Application

Abstract

Plants engage in communication through diverse methods, encompassing chemical signals, sound waves, and root networks. These signals serve to convey information about environmental challenges such as drought and disease, and play a role in attracting pollinators or deterring predators. Coined as the "plant's secret language" by Tompkins and Bird in 1973 [1] Tompkins, P., & Bird, C. [1973]. Scientists have identified specific compounds that plants use to signal to one another, including volatile organic compounds [VOCs] and herbivore-induced plant volatiles [HIPVs] that can be released into the air and root exudates that are released into the soil. Recent research has shed light on the mechanisms behind this communication, revealing that plants have a sophisticated network of sensory and signalling pathways that allow them to perceive and respond to various stimuli. The review covers a range of topics, including how plants communicate with each other, how they respond to biotic and abiotic stresses, and how they use this communication to defend against pathogens and predators[herbivore]. It also discusses the potential applications of this knowledge in various fields, such as agriculture, medicine, and environmental monitoring. Overall, this review study highlights the importance of understanding the plant's secret language for communication and its potential applications in various fields like agriculture, conservation, and medicine.