Definition
phytotoxin
noun
- a poisonous substance produced by a plant, especially one that is toxic to other organisms or to humans and animals that consume it
Usage: technical; biology/botany
Examples
- The phytotoxin in certain mushrooms can cause severe illness if ingested.
- Researchers studied how the plant's phytotoxin protects it from herbivores.
- Some seeds contain phytotoxins that must be removed before the seeds can be safely eaten.
- The phytotoxin produced by this weed makes it toxic to livestock.
- Scientists are investigating whether the phytotoxin could have medicinal applications.