What are secondary metabolites in plants primarily responsible for?

Secondary metabolites in plants play a crucial role in providing defense against pests and pathogens. These compounds, which are not directly involved in the primary metabolic processes necessary for growth, reproduction, or photosynthesis, serve various protective functions. For instance, they can deter herbivores through toxicity or unpalatability, attract predators or parasitoids of herbivores, and inhibit the growth of competing plants or pathogens.

Understanding this aspect of secondary metabolites emphasizes their evolutionary significance as adaptations that enhance a plant's ability to survive and thrive in its environment. While secondary metabolites might have other roles such as attracting pollinators or aiding in seed dispersal, their primary function as defensive agents underscores their importance in plant ecology and agricultural biotechnology.