Why do some plants smell like urine ?
It is not uncommon for sure plants to give off a strong odor that resembles piss . One such deterrent example is the unfolding pear tree , which releases an unpleasant fragrance that has been described as reek like all in fish or bozo urine . This foul smell can be quite off - putting , particularly when the tree is in bloom .
The scent of the unfolding pear tree is primarily due to a compound call butyric Zen . Butyric window pane is a by nature occurring chemical substance found in a variety show of sources , include dairy farm product and beast waste product . It has a typical spirit that is often associated with rancid butter or vomit . In the case of the flowering pear tree tree , the butyric loony toons is present in the flowers , peculiarly in the free fall when the flower turn bronzy or purplish .
But why would a industrial plant bring forth a substance that smells so unpleasant ? The answer lies in the process of pollination . Many plants rely on scent to attract pollinators , such as bee and butterfly stroke , to their flowers . By emit a stiff odor , these works are able to signal their presence to possible pollinators from a distance . In the pillowcase of the flowering pear tree tree , the foul smell may service as a direction to draw in flies or beetle , which are known to be effective pollinators for some plants .
While the scent of urine may seem unappealing to humans , it is important to remember that plants and animate being perceive olfactory property differently . What may be repulsive to us may be lure to sure dirt ball or animals . In fact , some plant life have germinate to mime the scent of animal waste in gild to attract specific pollinator . For example , the carrion flower give off an odor like to molder material body to attract flies , which serve as its main pollinators .
In addition to attract pollinators , the cheating odor of sealed flora may also serve as a defense mechanism . Some plant give rise odors that are unappealing to herbivores , deterring them from feeding on the plant . By emitting a strong scent , these plants are able-bodied to protect themselves from likely damage because of grazing creature .
It is worth take down that not all plants that let loose a strong odor smell like urine . There are many other aroma in the plant life kingdom , ranging from pleasant flowered scents to pungent or zesty aromas . Each plant has its own unique chemical composition , which bring to its specific fragrance .
The foul smell emit by some plant life , including the unfolding Pyrus communis Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree , can be attributed to compounds such as butyric superman . This olfactory sensation is often associated with urine or other unpleasant scents . However , it is important to remember that these odors wait on a specific determination for the plant , either by attracting pollinators or deterring herbivores . While the olfactory sensation may not be appealing to man , it is a natural part of the plant ’s survival and reproductive scheme .
Caroline Bates
