Which type of modification do thorns represent in plants?

Thorns are considered modified stems. In many plants, thorns serve as a defensive mechanism against herbivores, helping to protect the plant from being eaten. They arise from the plant's stem tissue rather than from leaves or roots. This modification allows the thorn to be a part of the plant's structure that supports its growth while simultaneously offering a deterrent to potential threats.

While leaves may also develop sharp or spiny structures, those would be classified differently, and roots typically do not evolve into thorns. Therefore, identifying thorns as modified stems accurately reflects their origin and function in the plant kingdom. Recognizing these modifications is crucial for understanding plant adaptations and survival strategies in their environments.