Correct option is A
The correct answer is option (a): Glucosinolates. Glucosinolates are a specific group of plant secondary metabolites found predominantly in plants belonging to the order Brassicales, which includes members of the Brassicaceae family like mustard, cabbage, broccoli, and radish. These compounds are sulfur-containing glycosides, and they play a defensive role in plants, acting as a deterrent against herbivores and pathogens.
Information Booster:
Glucosinolates: These sulfur-containing compounds are a defining feature of the Brassicaceae family and other members of the order Brassicales. Glucosinolates are stored in vacuoles and are usually not toxic in their intact form. However, when plant tissues are damaged (e.g., during herbivory), the enzyme myrosinase is activated, which hydrolyzes glucosinolates into toxic products like isothiocyanates. These breakdown products have defensive properties against herbivores and pathogens.
Alkaloids: Alkaloids are a large class of nitrogen-containing compounds with diverse structures and biological activities. They are found in many plant families, such as the Solanaceae (e.g., nicotine in tobacco), Papaveraceae (e.g., morphine in opium poppy), and others. However, alkaloids are not specifically associated with the order Brassicales.
Phenolics: Phenolic compounds are widely distributed in the plant kingdom. These compounds are important for plant defense against UV radiation, herbivores, and pathogens. Examples of phenolic compounds include flavonoids, lignins, and tannins. They are not exclusive to Brassicales but are found in a variety of plant species across many families.
Terpenoids: Terpenoids, also known as isoprenoids, are a large and diverse group of plant metabolites. These compounds, which include essential oils, resins, and hormones like gibberellins, are found across many plant families. They are not specific to Brassicales.
Additional Information:
Option (b): Alkaloids are found in a broad range of plant families, such as Papaveraceae (poppies), Solanaceae (nightshades), and Rubiaceae (coffee). They are not specific to the order Brassicales.
Option (c): Phenolic compounds are not restricted to the Brassicales and are found across various plant families, including Asteraceae (chamomile) and Rosaceae (apples).
Option (d): Terpenoids, also known as isoprenoids, are widespread in the plant kingdom. They are found in families like Rutaceae (citrus), Lauraceae (laurel), and many others.
