Read This! Allelopathy (allelon – “of each other” and pathos – “to suffer”) is the chemical inhibition of one species by another. This phenomenon is frequently found in plants where one species of plant releases a chemical into the environment that inhibits the growth of another species of plant. An example is the Creosote bush, which releases terpenes into the surrounding soil to inhibit the growth of other plants. 19. Describe what might be observed in a habitat that would indicate a plant species is allelopathic?
20. Considering what you know about population distribution, what type of distribution is likely to arise as a result of allelopathy? Justify your answer using complete sentences.
21. What would be some advantages of allelopathy to a plant?
22. What would be some disadvantages to the ecosystem where allelopathic plants grow?
23. Is it likely that a species that exhibits allelopathy would evolve over time? Explain your answer using what you know about the mechanisms of evolution.
24. The sorghum plant releases the allelotoxin sorgolene that disrupts mitochondrial functions and inhibits photosynthesis. Brainstorm with your group some positive applications for this allelotoxin.