cyanogenesis
/ˌsaɪənoʊˈdʒɛnəsɪs/
noun
- The process by which plants or other organisms produce hydrogen cyanide, often as a defense mechanism.
- Cyanogenesis in cassava plants can release toxic compounds if the roots are not properly processed.
- The rapid cyanogenesis observed in the damaged leaves helps protect the plant from insects.
- Scientists study cyanogenesis in certain clover species to understand how they deter herbivores.