Many plants have leaves and fruits have wax coatings. Some animals also have wax-coated fur or feathers. In which class of biomolecules do waxes belong AND what characteristic of these molecules makes them well-suited for their role in plants and animals?

Question

Biology

Kason Noble

23 December, 08:13

Many plants have leaves and fruits have wax coatings. Some animals also have wax-coated fur or feathers. In which class of biomolecules do waxes belong AND what characteristic of these molecules makes them well-suited for their role in plants and animals?

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Answers (1)

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Maryjane Wallace · Answer 1

1) Wax belong to lipids.

2) Animals: Water and cold isolation and protection from pathogenic microorganisms.

Plants: It controls evaporation and maintains hydration.

Explanation:

1) Wax belong to the biomolecules of lipids.

2) In animals, such as birds, the uropygial gland secrets sebum or wax, spreading it throughout the animal's feathers to prevent water from penetrating as it serves as an isolating compound for animals that live in cold areas. It also provides protection from bacteria and fungi. In coloquial terms, it would be like a water-proof coat that protects them from water and extreme climate.

In plants, the secretion of wax through the cuticle has been developed as an adaptation to control evaporation and maintain hydration.