The defensive function of cyanogenesis in natural populations.
Detailed ecological studies of some maritime populations of Lotus corniculatus L. have shown that the distribution of the cyanogenic form of this plant is directly related to the distribution and density of molluscs which graze selectively the acyanogenic form. This work, on a genetic polymorphism, is interpreted as giving direct evidence of chemical defence in natural populations.
D000818:Animals; D004463:Ecology; D004739:England; D005843:Geography; D008974:Mollusca; D018521:Plant Physiological Phenomena; D011110:Polymorphism, Genetic; D012621:Seasons; D012623:Seawater