2007-02-25 21:16:32 · 3 answers · asked by hari p 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Botany
1) Thorn = It is a modification of stem / branch for the purpose of protection. Example, Bougainvillea.
Kindly click on the blue link below to see a branch of Bougainvillea with thorn in the axil of each leaf.
1) http://classes.hortla.wsu.edu/hort231/List02/BougTwigLv.jpg
2) Spine = It is a modification of leaf for defense and reduction in transpiration. Example, Cacti.
Kindly click on the blue link below to see a cactus with a flower and spines.
2) http://www.1adventure.com/archives/images/14370006--cactus-flowers-spines-4.jpg
3) Prickle = Even though sharp and pointed as the other two above ; it is NOT a modification of any existing organ of a plant .
It is a new organ ( Organa de novo. as it is called in Latin)
It develops any where on the plant and used as a defensive organ. Rose is the best example of it.
Kindly click on the blue link below to see a beautiful photo of rose prickle--
3) http://oregonstate.edu/dept/ldplants/images/roegl987.jpg
All the three above have one similarity. They are sharp and can hurt if one is not careful!
I have given extra information about prickle to make the answer complete.
2007-02-25 22:19:15 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
A thorn is a specialized stem.
A spine is a specialized leaf.
2007-02-26 17:13:51 · answer #2 · answered by Papa Mac DaddyJoe 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
thorns are bent and spines are straight?
2007-02-26 05:19:43 · answer #3 · answered by freebird31wizard 6 · 0⤊ 2⤋