Phytohormone Cross-Talk
noun phrasePronunciation: /ˌfaɪtoʊˈhɔːrmoʊn ˈkrɔːsˌtɔːk/
The antagonistic or synergistic interactions between plant hormones (abscisic acid, ethylene, jasmonic acid, salicylic acid, gibberellins, auxins) in regulating stress responses and growth trade-offs. These interactions determine the integrated physiological outcome under multiple environmental constraints.
Plain English
The way different plant hormones communicate and interact to coordinate stress responses and growth regulation.
Etymology & History
Usage
"Phytohormone cross-talk between jasmonic acid and salicylic acid pathways determined whether the plant prioritized defense or growth recovery."
Style guide notes: Hyphenate 'cross-talk' consistently; capitalize 'Phytohormone' only at sentence beginning or in proper names.
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Related Terms
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an example of phytohormone cross-talk during stress?
ABA promotes stomatal closure and stress tolerance while gibberellins promote growth; their antagonism determines net plant response.
Why is understanding phytohormone cross-talk important?
It explains how plants balance competing demands like stress tolerance versus growth, and guides crop improvement strategies.
Why Test Candidates on This?
Advanced topic tested in plant physiology and molecular biology courses; demonstrates understanding of integrated plant responses.
Required skill level: Senior