How do control and coordination in plants differ from that in animals? Give any FOUR points of difference.

Control and coordination in plants and animals involve the regulation of various physiological processes to maintain homeostasis and respond to environmental changes. However, there are significant differences in the mechanisms employed by plants and animals for control and coordination. Here are four points of difference:

1. Nervous System vs. Plant Hormones:

In animals, control and coordination are primarily achieved through the nervous system, which includes a complex network of neurons and the release of neurotransmitters for rapid communication.
In plants, control and coordination are predominantly mediated by plant hormones (phytohormones) such as auxins, gibberellins, cytokinins, and abscisic acid. These hormones regulate growth, development, and responses to environmental stimuli.

2. Localization of Control:

Animals have centralized control centers, such as the brain and spinal cord, where information is processed, and responses are coordinated. The nervous system enables quick and precise responses to stimuli.
Plants lack a centralized nervous system. Instead, control and coordination are distributed throughout the plant body. Responses in plants are often slower and involve the movement of hormones to specific target cells or tissues.

3. Mobility and Response Time:

Animals are mobile organisms with well-developed sensory organs and rapid response times. The nervous system allows for quick and precise movements in response to external stimuli.
Plants are sessile organisms and cannot move actively. Their responses to environmental stimuli, such as light, gravity, and touch, are typically slower and involve growth or changes in cell turgor pressure.

4. Sensory Structures:

Animals possess specialized sensory structures, such as eyes, ears, and receptors, to detect and interpret various stimuli from the environment.
Plants lack specialized sensory organs. Instead, they rely on cells throughout their structure, especially at the growing tips and in leaves, to sense environmental cues and trigger responses.

In summary, we can say, while both plants and animals exhibit control and coordination mechanisms to survive and thrive in their respective environments, the specific strategies and systems employed differ significantly. Animals rely on a nervous system for rapid and precise responses, whereas plants use hormones and distributed control mechanisms to adapt to their surroundings.