What role do thorns generally serve in woody plants?

Thorns in woody plants primarily serve the purpose of deterring herbivores. By presenting a physical barrier, thorns can discourage animals from feeding on the plant, thus reducing damage and increasing the plant's chances of survival and reproductive success. The presence of thorns can also signal to potential herbivores that the plant may not be palatable or might pose a risk, leading them to seek food elsewhere.

While some plants might attract pollinators or enhance flowering through other adaptations, thorns are not typically linked to these functions. Additionally, water absorption in plants is generally facilitated by different structures, such as roots, rather than thorns. The primary and most significant role of thorns is their deterrent effect on herbivorous animals.