1
|
Zhang X, Dalsgaard B, Staab M, Zhu C, Zhao Y, Gonçalves F, Ren P, Cai C, Qiao G, Ding P, Si X. Habitat fragmentation increases specialization of multi-trophic interactions by high species turnover. Proc Biol Sci 2023; 290:20231372. [PMID: 37876189 PMCID: PMC10598433 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2023.1372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Habitat fragmentation is altering species interactions worldwide. However, the mechanisms underlying the response of network specialization to habitat fragmentation remain unknown, especially for multi-trophic interactions. We here collected a large dataset consisting of 2670 observations of tri-trophic interactions among plants, sap-sucking aphids and honeydew-collecting ants on 18 forested islands in the Thousand Island Lake, China. For each island, we constructed an antagonistic plant-aphid and a mutualistic aphid-ant network, and tested how network specialization varied with island area and isolation. We found that both networks exhibited higher specialization on smaller islands, while only aphid-ant networks had increased specialization on more isolated islands. Variations in network specialization among islands was primarily driven by species turnover, which was interlinked across trophic levels as fragmentation increased the specialization of both antagonistic and mutualistic networks through bottom-up effects via plant and aphid communities. These findings reveal that species on small and isolated islands display higher specialization mainly due to effects of fragmentation on species turnover, with behavioural changes causing interaction rewiring playing only a minor role. Our study highlights the significance of adopting a multi-trophic perspective when exploring patterns and processes in structuring ecological networks in fragmented landscapes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xue Zhang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis and Protection, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, People's Republic of China
- Section for Molecular Ecology and Evolution, Globe Institute, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen 2100, Denmark
| | - Bo Dalsgaard
- Section for Molecular Ecology and Evolution, Globe Institute, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen 2100, Denmark
| | - Michael Staab
- Technical University Darmstadt, Ecological Networks, 64287 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Chen Zhu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis and Protection, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, People's Republic of China
- Section for Molecular Ecology and Evolution, Globe Institute, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen 2100, Denmark
| | - Yuhao Zhao
- Zhejiang Zhoushan Archipelago Observation and Research Station, Institute of Eco-Chongming, Zhejiang Tiantong Forest Ecosystem National Observation and Research Station, School of Ecological and Environmental Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, People's Republic of China
| | - Fernando Gonçalves
- Section for Molecular Ecology and Evolution, Globe Institute, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen 2100, Denmark
| | - Peng Ren
- MOE Key Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis and Protection, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, People's Republic of China
| | - Chang Cai
- MOE Key Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis and Protection, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, People's Republic of China
| | - Gexia Qiao
- Key Laboratory of Zoological Systematics and Evolution, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, People's Republic of China
- College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, People's Republic of China
| | - Ping Ding
- MOE Key Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis and Protection, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, People's Republic of China
| | - Xingfeng Si
- Zhejiang Zhoushan Archipelago Observation and Research Station, Institute of Eco-Chongming, Zhejiang Tiantong Forest Ecosystem National Observation and Research Station, School of Ecological and Environmental Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Li Y, Schmid B, Schuldt A, Li S, Wang MQ, Fornoff F, Staab M, Guo PF, Anttonen P, Chesters D, Bruelheide H, Zhu CD, Ma K, Liu X. Multitrophic arthropod diversity mediates tree diversity effects on primary productivity. Nat Ecol Evol 2023; 7:832-840. [PMID: 37106157 DOI: 10.1038/s41559-023-02049-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023]
Abstract
Forests sustain 80% of terrestrial biodiversity and provide essential ecosystem services. Biodiversity experiments have demonstrated that plant diversity correlates with both primary productivity and higher trophic diversity. However, whether higher trophic diversity can mediate the effects of plant diversity on productivity remains unclear. Here, using 5 years of data on aboveground herbivorous, predatory and parasitoid arthropods along with tree growth data within a large-scale forest biodiversity experiment in southeast China, we provide evidence of multidirectional enhancement among the diversity of trees and higher trophic groups and tree productivity. We show that the effects of experimentally increased tree species richness were consistently positive for species richness and abundance of herbivores, predators and parasitoids. Richness effects decreased as trophic levels increased for species richness and abundance of all trophic groups. Multitrophic species richness and abundance of arthropods were important mediators of plant diversity effects on tree productivity, suggesting that optimizing forest management for increased carbon capture can be more effective when the diversity of higher trophic groups is promoted in concert with that of trees.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yi Li
- State Key Laboratory of Vegetation and Environmental Change, Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Bernhard Schmid
- Department of Geography, Remote Sensing Laboratories, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Andreas Schuldt
- Forest Nature Conservation, University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Shan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Vegetation and Environmental Change, Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Ming-Qiang Wang
- Key Laboratory of Zoological Systematics and Evolution, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mountain Ecological Restoration and Bioresource Utilization and Ecological Restoration and Biodiversity Conservation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Chengdu Institute of Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chengdu, China
| | - Felix Fornoff
- Chair of Nature Conservation and Landscape Ecology, Faculty of Environment and Natural Resources, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Michael Staab
- Ecological Networks, Technical University of Darmstadt, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Peng-Fei Guo
- College of Pharmacy, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, China
| | - Perttu Anttonen
- Institute of Biology/Geobotany and Botanical Garden, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
- German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Douglas Chesters
- Key Laboratory of Zoological Systematics and Evolution, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Helge Bruelheide
- Institute of Biology/Geobotany and Botanical Garden, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
- German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Chao-Dong Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Zoological Systematics and Evolution, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Keping Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Vegetation and Environmental Change, Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
- College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
- Zhejiang Qianjiangyuan Forest Biodiversity National Observation and Research Station, Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
- China National Botanical Garden, Beijing, China.
| | - Xiaojuan Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Vegetation and Environmental Change, Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
- Zhejiang Qianjiangyuan Forest Biodiversity National Observation and Research Station, Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
- China National Botanical Garden, Beijing, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Galmán A, Vázquez‐González C, Röder G, Castagneyrol B. Interactive effects of tree species composition and water availability on growth and direct and indirect defences in
Quercus ilex. OIKOS 2022. [DOI: 10.1111/oik.09125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Galmán
- Misión Biológica de Galicia, National Spanish Research Council (CSIC) Pontevedra Spain
- Inst. of Biology/Geobotany and Botanical Garden, Martin Luther Univ. Halle‐Wittenberg Germany
| | - Carla Vázquez‐González
- Misión Biológica de Galicia, National Spanish Research Council (CSIC) Pontevedra Spain
- Dept of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Univ. of California Irvine CA USA
| | - Gregory Röder
- Inst. of Biology, Univ. of Neuchâtel Neuchâtel Switzerland
| | | |
Collapse
|
4
|
Xu T, Chen L. Chemical communication in ant-hemipteran mutualism: potential implications for ant invasions. CURRENT OPINION IN INSECT SCIENCE 2021; 45:121-129. [PMID: 33901733 DOI: 10.1016/j.cois.2021.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2020] [Revised: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Ant-hemipteran mutualism is one of the most frequently observed food-for-protection associations in nature, and is recently found to contribute to the invasions of several of the most destructive invasive ants. Chemical communication underlies establishment and maintenance of such associations, in which a multitude of semiochemicals, such as pheromones, cuticular hydrocarbons, honeydew sugars and bacteria-produced honeydew volatiles mediate location, recognition, selection, learning of mutualistic partners. Here, we review what is known about the chemical communication between ants and honeydew-producing hemipterans, and discuss how invasive ants can rapidly recognize and establish a mutualistic relationship with the hemipterans with which they have never coevolved. We also highlight some future directions for a clearer understanding of the chemical communication in ant-hemipteran mutualism and its role in ant invasions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tian Xu
- College of Life Science, Institute of Life Science and Green Development, Hebei University, Baoding 071002, PR China; State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, PR China
| | - Li Chen
- College of Life Science, Institute of Life Science and Green Development, Hebei University, Baoding 071002, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Jactel H, Moreira X, Castagneyrol B. Tree Diversity and Forest Resistance to Insect Pests: Patterns, Mechanisms, and Prospects. ANNUAL REVIEW OF ENTOMOLOGY 2021; 66:277-296. [PMID: 32903046 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-ento-041720-075234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Ecological research conducted over the past five decades has shown that increasing tree species richness at forest stands can improve tree resistance to insect pest damage. However, the commonality of this finding is still under debate. In this review, we provide a quantitative assessment (i.e., a meta-analysis) of tree diversity effects on insect herbivory and discuss plausible mechanisms underlying the observed patterns. We provide recommendations and working hypotheses that can serve to lay the groundwork for research to come. Based on more than 600 study cases, our quantitative review indicates that insect herbivory was, on average, lower in mixed forest stands than in pure stands, but these diversity effects were contingent on herbivore diet breadth and tree species composition. In particular, tree species diversity mainly reduced damage of specialist insect herbivores in mixed stands with phylogenetically distant tree species. Overall, our findings provide essential guidance for forest pest management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hervé Jactel
- INRAE, University of Bordeaux, BIOGECO, F-33610 Cestas, France;
| | - Xoaquín Moreira
- Misión Biológica de Galicia (MBG-CSIC), 36080 Pontevedra, Galicia, Spain
| | | |
Collapse
|
6
|
Koski TM, de Jong S, Muola A, Amby DB, Andreasson E, Stenberg JA. 'Resistance Mixtures' Reduce Insect Herbivory in Strawberry ( Fragaria vesca) Plantations. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2021; 12:722795. [PMID: 34630469 PMCID: PMC8494967 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2021.722795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
The transition toward more sustainable plant protection with reduced pesticide use is difficult, because there is no "silver bullet" available among nonchemical tools. Integrating several plant protection approaches may thus be needed for efficient pest management. Recently, increasing the genetic diversity of plantations via cultivar mixing has been proposed as a possible method to reduce pest damage. However, previous studies have not addressed either the relative efficiency of exploiting cultivar mixing and intrinsic plant herbivore resistance or the potential utility of combining these approaches to increase cropping security. Here, using a full factorial experiment with 60 woodland strawberry plots, we tested for the relative and combined effect of cultivar mixing and intrinsic plant resistance on herbivore damage and yield. The experiment comprised two levels of diversity ("high" with 10 varieties and "low" with two varieties) and three levels of resistance ("resistant" comprising only varieties intrinsically resistant against strawberry leaf beetle Galerucella tenella; "susceptible" with susceptible varieties only; and "resistance mixtures" with 50:50 mixtures of resistant and susceptible varieties). The experiment was carried out over two growing seasons. Use of resistant varieties either alone or intermixed with susceptible varieties in "resistance mixtures" reduced insect herbivory. Interestingly, resistant varieties not only reduced the mean damage in "resistance mixtures" by themselves being less damaged, but also protected intermixed susceptible varieties via associational resistance. The effect of higher genetic diversity was less evident, reducing herbivory only at the highest level of herbivore damage. In general, herbivory was lowest in plots with high diversity that included at least some resistant varieties and highest in low diversity plots consisting only of susceptible varieties. Despite this, no significant difference in yield (fruit biomass) was found, indicating that strawberry may be relatively tolerant. Our results demonstrate that combined use of high genetic diversity and resistant varieties can help reduce pest damage and provide a useful tool for sustainable food production. "Resistance mixtures" may be particularly useful for sensitive food crops where susceptible varieties are high yielding that could not be completely replaced by resistant ones.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tuuli-Marjaana Koski
- Department of Plant Protection Biology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Alnarp, Sweden
- Section of Ecology, Department of Biology, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
- *Correspondence: Tuuli-Marjaana Koski,
| | - Sanne de Jong
- Department of Plant Protection Biology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Alnarp, Sweden
| | - Anne Muola
- Department of Plant Protection Biology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Alnarp, Sweden
- Section of Ecology, Department of Biology, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Daniel B. Amby
- Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Erik Andreasson
- Department of Plant Protection Biology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Alnarp, Sweden
| | - Johan A. Stenberg
- Department of Plant Protection Biology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Alnarp, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Fornoff F, Klein AM, Blüthgen N, Staab M. Tree diversity increases robustness of multi-trophic interactions. Proc Biol Sci 2020; 286:20182399. [PMID: 30836869 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2018.2399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Multi-trophic interactions maintain critical ecosystem functions. Biodiversity is declining globally, while responses of trophic interactions to biodiversity change are largely unclear. Thus, studying responses of multi-trophic interaction robustness to biodiversity change is crucial for understanding ecosystem functioning and persistence. We investigate plant-Hemiptera (antagonism) and Hemiptera-ant (mutualism) interaction networks in response to experimental manipulation of tree diversity. We show increased diversity at both higher trophic levels (Hemiptera and ants) and increased robustness through redundancy of lower level species of multi-trophic interactions when tree diversity increased. Hemiptera and ant diversity increased with tree diversity through non-additive diversity effects. Network analyses identified that tree diversity also increased the number of tree and Hemiptera species used by Hemiptera and ant species, and decreased the specialization on lower trophic level species in both mutualistic and antagonist interactions. Our results demonstrate that bottom-up effects of tree diversity ascend through trophic levels regardless of interaction type. Thus, local tree diversity is a key driver of multi-trophic community diversity and interaction robustness in forests.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Felix Fornoff
- 1 Chair of Nature Conservation and Landscape Ecology, Faculty of Environment and Natural Resources, University of Freiburg , Tennenbacherstraße 4, 79196 Freiburg , Germany
| | - Alexandra-Maria Klein
- 1 Chair of Nature Conservation and Landscape Ecology, Faculty of Environment and Natural Resources, University of Freiburg , Tennenbacherstraße 4, 79196 Freiburg , Germany
| | - Nico Blüthgen
- 2 Department of Biology, Technische Universität Darmstadt , Schnittspahnstraße 3, 64287 Darmstadt , Germany
| | - Michael Staab
- 1 Chair of Nature Conservation and Landscape Ecology, Faculty of Environment and Natural Resources, University of Freiburg , Tennenbacherstraße 4, 79196 Freiburg , Germany
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Drought and plant neighbourhood interactively determine herbivore consumption and performance. Sci Rep 2018; 8:5930. [PMID: 29651050 PMCID: PMC5897364 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-24299-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2017] [Accepted: 03/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Both plant neighbourhood composition and drought have well-known independent effects on insect herbivore performance, but their interactive effects remain elusive. In this study we performed a laboratory experiment to investigate the independent and combined effects of plant neighbourhood composition and drought on the performance of Gypsy moth larvae (Lymantria dispar) feeding on silver birch (Betula pendula) leaves. For this, we collected leaf samples from birch trees growing in a field experiment where we manipulated both host-tree species diversity (three levels: birch monocultures, two-species mixtures associating birch with the pedunculate oak Quercus robur or maritime pine Pinus pinaster, and three-species mixture with pedunculate oak, the maritime pine and birch) and water availability (two levels: irrigated vs. non-irrigated). In most cases, plant neighbourhood composition and irrigation treatments independently and interactively affected herbivore performance traits, especially those related to growth and food (i.e. birch leaves) processing. By addressing the interactive effects of tree species diversity and drought on insect herbivory from the herbivore’s point of view, our study builds toward a better understanding of the multiple ecological drivers of plant-insect interactions.
Collapse
|
9
|
Schuldt A, Fornoff F, Bruelheide H, Klein AM, Staab M. Tree species richness attenuates the positive relationship between mutualistic ant-hemipteran interactions and leaf chewer herbivory. Proc Biol Sci 2018; 284:rspb.2017.1489. [PMID: 28878067 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2017.1489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2017] [Accepted: 07/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Interactions across trophic levels influence plant diversity effects on ecosystem functions, but the complexity of these interactions remains poorly explored. For example, the interplay between different interactions (e.g. mutualism, predation) might be an important moderator of biodiversity-ecosystem function relationships. We tested for relationships between trophobioses (facultative ant-hemipteran mutualism) and leaf chewer herbivory in a subtropical forest biodiversity experiment. We analysed trophobiosis and herbivory data of more than 10 000 trees along a tree species richness gradient. Against expectations, chewing damage was higher on trees with trophobioses. However, the net positive relationship between trophobioses and overall herbivory depended on tree species richness, being most pronounced at low richness. Our results point to indirect, positive effects of ant-tended sap suckers on leaf chewers, potentially by altering plant defences. Direct antagonistic relationships of trophobiotic ants and leaf-chewing herbivores-frequently reported to drive community-wide effects of trophobioses in other ecosystems-seemed less relevant. However, antagonistic interactions likely contributed to the attenuating effect of tree species richness, because trophobiotic ant and herbivore communities changed from monocultures to species-rich mixtures. Our findings, therefore, suggest that biodiversity loss might lead to complex changes in higher trophic level effects on ecosystem functions, mediated by both trophic and non-trophic interactions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Schuldt
- German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig, Deutscher Platz 5e, 04103 Leipzig, Germany .,Institute of Biology/Geobotany and Botanical Garden, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Am Kirchtor 1, 06108 Halle, Germany
| | - Felix Fornoff
- University of Freiburg, Faculty of Environment and Natural Resources, Nature Conservation and Landscape Ecology, Tennenbacherstr. 4, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Helge Bruelheide
- German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig, Deutscher Platz 5e, 04103 Leipzig, Germany.,Institute of Biology/Geobotany and Botanical Garden, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Am Kirchtor 1, 06108 Halle, Germany
| | - Alexandra-Maria Klein
- University of Freiburg, Faculty of Environment and Natural Resources, Nature Conservation and Landscape Ecology, Tennenbacherstr. 4, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Michael Staab
- University of Freiburg, Faculty of Environment and Natural Resources, Nature Conservation and Landscape Ecology, Tennenbacherstr. 4, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Rosado-Sánchez S, Parra-Tabla V, Betancur-Ancona D, Moreira X, Abdala-Roberts L. Tree species diversity alters plant defense investment in an experimental forest plantation in southern Mexico. Biotropica 2017. [DOI: 10.1111/btp.12527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Rosado-Sánchez
- Departamento de Ecología Tropical; Campus de Ciencias Biológicas y Agropecuarias; Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán; Carretera Mérida-Xmatkuil Km 15.5 C.P. 97100 Mérida Yuc. México
| | - Víctor Parra-Tabla
- Departamento de Ecología Tropical; Campus de Ciencias Biológicas y Agropecuarias; Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán; Carretera Mérida-Xmatkuil Km 15.5 C.P. 97100 Mérida Yuc. México
| | - David Betancur-Ancona
- Facultad de Ingeniería Química; Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán; Periférico Nte. Km. 33.5, Tablaje Catastral 13615, Col. Chuburná de Hidalgo Inn. C.P. 97203 Mérida Yuc. México
| | - Xoaquín Moreira
- Misión Biológica de Galicia (MBG-CSIC); Apdo. 28 36080 Pontevedra, Galicia Spain
| | - Luis Abdala-Roberts
- Departamento de Ecología Tropical; Campus de Ciencias Biológicas y Agropecuarias; Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán; Carretera Mérida-Xmatkuil Km 15.5 C.P. 97100 Mérida Yuc. México
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Castagneyrol B, Bonal D, Damien M, Jactel H, Meredieu C, Muiruri EW, Barbaro L. Bottom-up and top-down effects of tree species diversity on leaf insect herbivory. Ecol Evol 2017; 7:3520-3531. [PMID: 28515887 PMCID: PMC5433970 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.2950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2016] [Revised: 02/21/2017] [Accepted: 03/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The diversity of plant neighbors commonly results in direct, bottom-up effects on herbivore ability to locate their host, and in indirect effects on herbivores involving changes in plant traits and a top-down control by their enemies. Yet, the relative contribution of bottom-up and top-down forces remains poorly understood. We also lack knowledge on the effect of abiotic constraints such as summer drought on the strength and direction of these effects. We measured leaf damage on pedunculate oak (Quercus robur), alone or associated with birch, pine or both in a long-term tree diversity experiment (ORPHEE), where half of the plots were irrigated while the other half remained without irrigation and received only rainfall. We tested three mechanisms likely to explain the effects of oak neighbors on herbivory: (1) Direct bottom-up effects of heterospecific neighbors on oak accessibility to herbivores, (2) indirect bottom-up effects of neighbors on the expression of leaf traits, and (3) top-down control of herbivores by predators. Insect herbivory increased during the growth season but was independent of neighbor identity and irrigation. Specific leaf area, leaf toughness, and thickness varied with neighbor identity while leaf dry matter content or C:N ratio did not. When summarized in a principal component analysis (PCA), neighbor identity explained 87% of variability in leaf traits. PCA axes partially predicted herbivory. Despite greater rates of attack on dummy caterpillars in irrigated plots, avian predation, and insect herbivory remained unrelated. Our study suggests that neighbor identity can indirectly influence insect herbivory in mixed forests by modifying leaf traits. However, we found only partial evidence for these trait-mediated effects and suggest that more attention should be paid to some unmeasured plant traits such as secondary metabolites, including volatile organic compounds, to better anticipate the effects of climate change on plant-insect interactions in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Damien Bonal
- EEFINRAUniversité de Lorraine54280ChampenouxFrance
| | - Maxime Damien
- ECOBIOUMR CNRS 6553Université de Rennes35042RennesFrance
| | | | | | - Evalyne W. Muiruri
- School of Biological SciencesRoyal Holloway University of LondonEghamSurrey TW20 0EXUK
- Department of BiosciencesDurham UniversityStockton Road, DurhamDH1 3LEUK
| | - Luc Barbaro
- BIOGECOINRAUniv. Bordeaux33610CestasFrance
- DynaforINPTEI PurpanINRAUniversité de Toulouse31320AuzevilleFrance
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Leles B, Xiao X, Pasion BO, Nakamura A, Tomlinson KW. Does plant diversity increase top-down control of herbivorous insects in tropical forest? OIKOS 2017. [DOI: 10.1111/oik.03562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Leles
- Program for Field Studies in Tropical Asia, Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Menglun, Mengla; Yunnan PR China
| | - Xue Xiao
- Program for Field Studies in Tropical Asia, Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Menglun, Mengla; Yunnan PR China
| | - Bonifacio O. Pasion
- Program for Field Studies in Tropical Asia, Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Menglun, Mengla; Yunnan PR China
- Dept of Biology; Univ. of Naples FredericoII; IT-80126 Naples Italy
- Univ. of Chinese Academy of Sciences; Beijing PR China
| | - Akihiro Nakamura
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Forest Ecology, Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Menglun, Mengla; Yunnan PR China
| | - Kyle W. Tomlinson
- Center for Integrative Conservation, Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Menglun, Mengla; Yunnan PR China
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Canedo-Júnior EO, Santiago GS, Zurlo LF, Ribas CR, Carvalho RP, Alves GP, Carvalho MCS, Souza B. Isolated and Community Contexts Produce Distinct Responses by Host Plants to the Presence of Ant-Aphid Interaction: Plant Productivity and Seed Viability. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0170915. [PMID: 28141849 PMCID: PMC5283668 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0170915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2016] [Accepted: 01/12/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Ant-aphid interactions may affect host plants in several ways, however, most studies measure only the amount of fruit and seed produced, and do not test seed viability. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the effects of the presence of ant-aphid interactions upon host plant productivity and seed viability in two different contexts: isolated and within an arthropod community. For this purpose we tested the hypothesis that in both isolated and community contexts, the presence of an ant-aphid interaction will have a positive effect on fruit and seed production, seed biomass and rate of seed germination, and a negative effect on abnormal seedling rates, in comparison to plants without ants. We performed a field mesocosm experiment containing five treatments: Ant-aphid, Aphid, Community, Ant-free community and Control. We counted fruits and seeds produced by each treatment, and conducted experiments for seed biomass and germinability. We found that in the community context the presence of an ant-aphid interaction negatively affected fruit and seed production. We think this may be because aphid attendance by tending-ants promotes aphid damage to the host plant, but without an affect on seed weight and viability. On the other hand, when isolated, the presence of an ant-aphid interaction positively affected fruit and seed production. These positive effects are related to the cleaning services offered to aphids by tending-ants, which prevent the development of saprophytic fungi on the surface of leaves, which would cause a decrease in photosynthetic rates. Our study is important because we evaluated some parameters of plant fitness that have not been addressed very well by other studies involving the effects of ant-aphid interactions mainly on plants with short life cycles. Lastly, our context dependent approach sheds new light on how ecological interactions can vary among different methods of crop management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ernesto Oliveira Canedo-Júnior
- Laboratório de Ecologia de Formigas, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ecologia Aplicada, Setor de Ecologia e Conservação, Departamento de Biologia, Universidade Federal de Lavras, Lavras, MG, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Entomologia, Departamento de Entomologia, Universidade Federal de Lavras, Lavras, MG, Brazil
| | - Graziele Silva Santiago
- Laboratório de Ecologia de Formigas, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ecologia Aplicada, Setor de Ecologia e Conservação, Departamento de Biologia, Universidade Federal de Lavras, Lavras, MG, Brazil
| | - Luana Fonseca Zurlo
- Laboratório de Ecologia de Formigas, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ecologia Aplicada, Setor de Ecologia e Conservação, Departamento de Biologia, Universidade Federal de Lavras, Lavras, MG, Brazil
| | - Carla Rodrigues Ribas
- Laboratório de Ecologia de Formigas, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ecologia Aplicada, Setor de Ecologia e Conservação, Departamento de Biologia, Universidade Federal de Lavras, Lavras, MG, Brazil
| | - Rafaela Pereira Carvalho
- Laboratório de Ecologia de Formigas, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ecologia Aplicada, Setor de Ecologia e Conservação, Departamento de Biologia, Universidade Federal de Lavras, Lavras, MG, Brazil
| | - Guilherme Pereira Alves
- Laboratório de Ecologia de Formigas, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ecologia Aplicada, Setor de Ecologia e Conservação, Departamento de Biologia, Universidade Federal de Lavras, Lavras, MG, Brazil
| | - Mariana Comanucci Silva Carvalho
- Laboratório de Ecologia de Formigas, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ecologia Aplicada, Setor de Ecologia e Conservação, Departamento de Biologia, Universidade Federal de Lavras, Lavras, MG, Brazil
| | - Brígida Souza
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Entomologia, Departamento de Entomologia, Universidade Federal de Lavras, Lavras, MG, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Clark RE, Farkas TE, Lichter-Marck I, Johnson ER, Singer MS. Multiple interaction types determine the impact of ant predation of caterpillars in a forest community. Ecology 2016; 97:3379-3388. [DOI: 10.1002/ecy.1571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2016] [Revised: 06/21/2016] [Accepted: 08/23/2016] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Robert E. Clark
- Biology Department; Wesleyan University; 52 Lawn Avenue Middletown Connecticut 06459 USA
| | - Timothy E. Farkas
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology; University of Connecticut; Storrs Connecticut 06269 USA
| | - Isaac Lichter-Marck
- Biology Department; Wesleyan University; 52 Lawn Avenue Middletown Connecticut 06459 USA
| | - Emily R. Johnson
- Biology Department; Wesleyan University; 52 Lawn Avenue Middletown Connecticut 06459 USA
| | - Michael S. Singer
- Biology Department; Wesleyan University; 52 Lawn Avenue Middletown Connecticut 06459 USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Abdala-Roberts L, Hernández-Cumplido J, Chel-Guerrero L, Betancur-Ancona D, Benrey B, Moreira X. Effects of plant intraspecific diversity across three trophic levels: Underlying mechanisms and plant traits. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF BOTANY 2016; 103:1810-1818. [PMID: 27756730 DOI: 10.3732/ajb.1600234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2016] [Accepted: 08/30/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
PREMISE OF STUDY Although there is increasing recognition of the effects of plant intraspecific diversity on consumers, the mechanisms by which such effects cascade-up to higher trophic levels remain elusive. METHODS We evaluated the effects of plant (lima bean, Phaseolus lunatus) intraspecific diversity on a suite of insect herbivores (leaf-chewers, aphids, and seed-eating beetles) and their third trophic-level associates (parasitoids and aphid-tending ants). We established plots of three plants, classified as monocultures of one population source or polycultures with mixtures of three of the four population sources (N = 16 plots per level of diversity). Within each plot, plants were individually placed in pots and canopy contact was prevented, therefore eliminating diversity effects on consumers arising from changes in plant traits due to plant physical interactions. KEY RESULTS Plant diversity reduced damage by leaf-chewers as well as aphid abundance, and the latter effect in turn reduced ant abundance. In contrast, plant diversity increased the abundance of seed-eating beetles, but did not influence their associated parasitoids. There were no effects of diversity on seed traits potentially associated with seed predation, suggesting that differences in early season herbivory between monocultures and polycultures (a likely mechanism of diversity effects on plants since plant interactions were prevented) did not drive concomitant changes in plant traits. CONCLUSIONS This study emphasizes that effects of plant intraspecific diversity on consumers are contingent upon differences in associate responses within and among higher trophic levels and suggests possible mechanisms by which such effects propagate up this food web.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luis Abdala-Roberts
- Departamento de Ecología Tropical, Campus de Ciencias Biológicas y Agropecuarias, Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán. Km. 15.5 Carretera Mérida-Xmatkuil. 97000. Mérida, Yucatán, México
| | | | - Luis Chel-Guerrero
- Facultad de Ingeniería Química, Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán. Periférico Norte, Km. 33.5, Colonia Chuburná de Hidalgo Inn. 97203. Mérida, Yucatán, México
| | - David Betancur-Ancona
- Facultad de Ingeniería Química, Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán. Periférico Norte, Km. 33.5, Colonia Chuburná de Hidalgo Inn. 97203. Mérida, Yucatán, México
| | - Betty Benrey
- Institute of Biology, Laboratory of Evolutionary Entomology, University of Neuchâtel, Rue Emile-Argand 11, 2000 Neuchâtel, Switzerland
| | - Xoaquín Moreira
- Misión Biológica de Galicia (MBG-CSIC), Apdo. 28 36080 Pontevedra, Galicia, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Esquivel-Gómez L, Abdala-Roberts L, Pinkus-Rendón M, Parra-Tabla V. Effects of tree species diversity on a community of weaver spiders in a tropical forest plantation. Biotropica 2016. [DOI: 10.1111/btp.12352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Luis Esquivel-Gómez
- Departamento de Ecología Tropical; Campus de Ciencias Biológicas y Agropecuarias; Universidad Autόnoma de Yucatán; Apartado Postal 4-116, Itzimná Merida 97000 Yucatan Mexico
| | - Luis Abdala-Roberts
- Departamento de Ecología Tropical; Campus de Ciencias Biológicas y Agropecuarias; Universidad Autόnoma de Yucatán; Apartado Postal 4-116, Itzimná Merida 97000 Yucatan Mexico
| | - Miguel Pinkus-Rendón
- Centro Peninsular en Humanidades y Ciencias Sociales; Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México; Merida 97150 Yucatan Mexico
| | - Víctor Parra-Tabla
- Departamento de Ecología Tropical; Campus de Ciencias Biológicas y Agropecuarias; Universidad Autόnoma de Yucatán; Apartado Postal 4-116, Itzimná Merida 97000 Yucatan Mexico
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Maňák V, Björklund N, Lenoir L, Knape J, Nordlander G. Behavioural responses of pine weevils to non‐consumptive interactions with red wood ants. J Zool (1987) 2016. [DOI: 10.1111/jzo.12321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- V. Maňák
- Department of Ecology Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences Uppsala Sweden
| | - N. Björklund
- Department of Ecology Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences Uppsala Sweden
| | - L. Lenoir
- Department of Ecology Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences Uppsala Sweden
| | - J. Knape
- Department of Ecology Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences Uppsala Sweden
| | - G. Nordlander
- Department of Ecology Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences Uppsala Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Moreira X, Abdala-Roberts L, Rasmann S, Castagneyrol B, Mooney KA. Plant diversity effects on insect herbivores and their natural enemies: current thinking, recent findings, and future directions. CURRENT OPINION IN INSECT SCIENCE 2016; 14:1-7. [PMID: 27436639 DOI: 10.1016/j.cois.2015.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2015] [Revised: 10/06/2015] [Accepted: 10/08/2015] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
A rich body of theory has been developed to predict the effects of plant diversity on communities at higher trophic levels and the mechanisms underpinning such effects. However, there are currently a number of key gaps in knowledge that have hindered the development of a predictive framework of plant diversity effects on consumers. For instance, we still know very little about how the magnitude of plant trait variation (e.g. intra-specific vs. inter-specific), as well as the identity and combined effects of plant, herbivore and natural enemy traits, mediate plant diversity effects on consumers. Moreover, the fine-scale mechanisms (e.g. changes in consumer behaviour or recruitment responses) underlying such diversity effects in many cases remain elusive or have been overlooked. In addition, most studies of plant diversity effects on associated consumers have been developed under a static, unidirectional (bottom-up) framework of effects on herbivores and predators without taking into account the potential for dynamic feedbacks across trophic levels. Here we seek to address these key gaps in knowledge as well as to capitalize on recent advances and emerging frameworks in plant biodiversity research. In doing so, we provide new insights as well as recommendations which will stimulate new research and advance this field of study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xoaquín Moreira
- Biological Mission of Galicia (MBG-CSIC), Apdo. 28, 36080 Pontevedra, Galicia, Spain.
| | - Luis Abdala-Roberts
- Department of Tropical Ecology, Autonomous University of Yucatan, Apartado Postal 4-116, Itzimna, 97000 Merida, Yucatan, Mexico
| | - Sergio Rasmann
- Institute of Biology, Laboratory of Functional Ecology, University of Neuchâtel, Rue Emile-Argand 11, 2000 Neuchâtel, Switzerland
| | - Bastien Castagneyrol
- INRA, BIOGECO, UMR1202, 69 Route d'Arcachon, F-33610 Cestas, France; Univ. Bordeaux, BIOGECO, UMR 1202, F-33615 Pessac, France
| | - Kailen A Mooney
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California, 92697 Irvine, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Murphy SM, Battocletti AH, Tinghitella RM, Wimp GM, Ries L. Complex community and evolutionary responses to habitat fragmentation and habitat edges: what can we learn from insect science? CURRENT OPINION IN INSECT SCIENCE 2016; 14:61-65. [PMID: 27436648 DOI: 10.1016/j.cois.2016.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2015] [Revised: 01/19/2016] [Accepted: 01/20/2016] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Habitat fragmentation is the primary factor leading to species extinction worldwide and understanding how species respond to habitat edges is critical for understanding the effects of fragmentation on insect diversity in both natural and managed landscapes. Most studies on insect responses to the habitat edge focus on bottom-up changes in resources. Only a few recent studies have examined multi-trophic responses to habitat edges; the results of these studies highlight the problem that we lack a conceptual framework to understand the complex results observed when a single species' response to an edge 'cascades' throughout the food web in ways that are currently not predictable. Recent research from insect systems suggests that habitat edge responses cascade both up and down multi-trophic foodwebs and these altered species interactions may affect evolutionary processes. Future studies that investigate the effects of habitat edges on both ecological and evolutionary dynamics can help to fill these knowledge gaps and we suggest that insects, with short generation times, present an ideal opportunity to do so.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shannon M Murphy
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Denver, Denver, CO 80208, USA.
| | - Amy H Battocletti
- Biology Department, Georgetown University, Washington, D.C. 20057, USA
| | - Robin M Tinghitella
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Denver, Denver, CO 80208, USA
| | - Gina M Wimp
- Biology Department, Georgetown University, Washington, D.C. 20057, USA
| | - Leslie Ries
- Biology Department, Georgetown University, Washington, D.C. 20057, USA
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Hernandez-Cumplido J, Forter B, Moreira X, Heil M, Benrey B. Induced Floral and Extrafloral Nectar Production Affect Ant-pollinator Interactions and Plant Fitness. Biotropica 2016. [DOI: 10.1111/btp.12283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Johnattan Hernandez-Cumplido
- Laboratory of Evolutionary Entomology; Institute of Biology; University of Neuchâtel; Rue Emile Argand 11 2000 Neuchâtel Switzerland
| | - Bastien Forter
- Laboratory of Evolutionary Entomology; Institute of Biology; University of Neuchâtel; Rue Emile Argand 11 2000 Neuchâtel Switzerland
| | - Xoaquín Moreira
- Misión Biológica de Galicia (MBG-CSIC); Apdo. 28 36080 Pontevedra Galicia Spain
| | - Martin Heil
- Departamento de Ingeniería Genética; CINVESTAV Irapuato. Km. 9.6 Libramiento Norte Carretera Irapuato-León 36821 Irapuato Guanajuato Mexico
| | - Betty Benrey
- Laboratory of Evolutionary Entomology; Institute of Biology; University of Neuchâtel; Rue Emile Argand 11 2000 Neuchâtel Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Mestre L, Piñol J, Barrientos JA, Espadaler X. Differential ant exclusion from canopies shows contrasting top-down effects on community structure. Oecologia 2015; 180:193-203. [PMID: 26376660 DOI: 10.1007/s00442-015-3442-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2015] [Accepted: 08/30/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Predators have far-reaching effects on communities by triggering top-down trophic cascades that influence ecosystem functioning. Omnivory and intraguild interactions between predators give rise to reticulate food webs and may either strengthen or dampen trophic cascades depending on context. Disentangling the effects of multiple predator species is therefore crucial for predicting the influence of predators on community structure. We focused on ants as dominant generalist predators in arthropod communities and set up a differential ant exclusion from canopies to examine its effects on assemblage species composition and densities of five arthropod groups (psocopterans, aphids, spiders, heteropterans and beetles). We coupled a glue band with tubes allowing only the ant Lasius grandis to reach the canopies to isolate its effect from the rest of crawling predators (ants, earwigs) and compared it against a full exclusion and a control. L. grandis alone had widespread effects on assemblage species composition, with contrasting species-specific responses within groups, where some species affected by L. grandis presence were not further affected by the presence of the whole crawling predator assemblage, and vice versa. Overall, L. grandis caused two- to threefold decreases of generalist predators and a threefold increase of aphids. However, it lacked further top-down effects on primary consumers, which only emerged when all crawling predators were present. This differential exclusion demonstrates the distinctive and widespread intraguild effects on community structure of a single ant species that contrast with the top-down effects exerted by the whole crawling predator assemblage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laia Mestre
- Universitat Autònoma Barcelona, 08193, Cerdanyola Del Vallès, Spain. .,CREAF, 08193, Cerdanyola Del Vallès, Spain. .,Department of Ecology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Box 7044, 750 07, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - J Piñol
- Universitat Autònoma Barcelona, 08193, Cerdanyola Del Vallès, Spain.,CREAF, 08193, Cerdanyola Del Vallès, Spain
| | - J A Barrientos
- Universitat Autònoma Barcelona, 08193, Cerdanyola Del Vallès, Spain
| | - X Espadaler
- Universitat Autònoma Barcelona, 08193, Cerdanyola Del Vallès, Spain.,CREAF, 08193, Cerdanyola Del Vallès, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Campos-Navarrete MJ, Munguía-Rosas MA, Abdala-Roberts L, Quinto J, Parra-Tabla V. Effects of Tree Genotypic Diversity and Species Diversity on the Arthropod Community Associated with Big-leaf Mahogany. Biotropica 2015. [DOI: 10.1111/btp.12250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- María J. Campos-Navarrete
- Departamento de Ecología Tropical; Universidad Autόnoma de Yucatán; Campus de Ciencias Biológicas y Agropecuarias Apartado Postal 4-116 Itzimná 97000 Mérida Yucatán Mexico
- División de Estudios de Posgrado e Investigación; Instituto Tecnológico de Tizimín; Tecnológico Nacional de México; Final del Aero puerto Cupul S/N. 97700 Tizimín Yucatán Mexico
| | - Miguel A. Munguía-Rosas
- Departamento de Ecología Humana; Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional (CINVESTAV); KM 6 Antigua Carretera a Progreso Mérida Yucatán 97310 Mexico
| | - Luis Abdala-Roberts
- Departamento de Ecología Tropical; Universidad Autόnoma de Yucatán; Campus de Ciencias Biológicas y Agropecuarias Apartado Postal 4-116 Itzimná 97000 Mérida Yucatán Mexico
| | - Javier Quinto
- Departamento de Ecología Tropical; Universidad Autόnoma de Yucatán; Campus de Ciencias Biológicas y Agropecuarias Apartado Postal 4-116 Itzimná 97000 Mérida Yucatán Mexico
| | - Víctor Parra-Tabla
- Departamento de Ecología Tropical; Universidad Autόnoma de Yucatán; Campus de Ciencias Biológicas y Agropecuarias Apartado Postal 4-116 Itzimná 97000 Mérida Yucatán Mexico
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Campos-Navarrete MJ, Abdala-Roberts L, Munguía-Rosas MA, Parra-Tabla V. Are Tree Species Diversity and Genotypic Diversity Effects on Insect Herbivores Mediated by Ants? PLoS One 2015; 10:e0132671. [PMID: 26241962 PMCID: PMC4524695 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0132671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2015] [Accepted: 06/17/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Plant diversity can influence predators and omnivores and such effects may in turn influence herbivores and plants. However, evidence for these ecological feedbacks is rare. We evaluated if the effects of tree species (SD) and genotypic diversity (GD) on the abundance of different guilds of insect herbivores associated with big-leaf mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla) were contingent upon the protective effects of ants tending extra-floral nectaries of this species. This study was conducted within a larger experiment consisting of mahogany monocultures and species polycultures of four species and –within each of these two plot types– mahogany was represented by either one or four maternal families. We selected 24 plots spanning these treatment combinations, 10 mahogany plants/plot, and within each plot experimentally reduced ant abundance on half of the selected plants, and surveyed ant and herbivore abundance. There were positive effects of SD on generalist leaf-chewers and sap-feeders, but for the latter group this effect depended on the ant reduction treatment: SD positively influenced sap-feeders under ambient ant abundance but had no effect when ant abundance was reduced; at the same time, ants had negative effects on sap feeders in monoculture but no effect in polyculture. In contrast, SD did not influence specialist stem-borers or leaf-miners and this effect was not contingent upon ant reduction. Finally, GD did not influence any of the herbivore guilds studied, and such effects did not depend on the ant treatment. Overall, we show that tree species diversity influenced interactions between a focal plant species (mahogany) and ants, and that such effects in turn mediated plant diversity effects on some (sap-feeders) but not all the herbivores guilds studied. Our results suggest that the observed patterns are dependent on the combined effects of herbivore identity, diet breadth, and the source of plant diversity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- María José Campos-Navarrete
- Departamento de Ecología Tropical, Campus de Ciencias Biológicas y Agropecuarias, Universidad Autόnoma de Yucatán, Apartado Postal 4–116, Itzimná, 97000, Mérida, Yucatán, México
| | - Luis Abdala-Roberts
- Departamento de Ecología Tropical, Campus de Ciencias Biológicas y Agropecuarias, Universidad Autόnoma de Yucatán, Apartado Postal 4–116, Itzimná, 97000, Mérida, Yucatán, México
| | - Miguel A. Munguía-Rosas
- Departamento de Ecología Humana, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional (CINVESTAV), KM 6 Antigua Carretera a Progreso, Mérida, 97310, México
| | - Víctor Parra-Tabla
- Departamento de Ecología Tropical, Campus de Ciencias Biológicas y Agropecuarias, Universidad Autόnoma de Yucatán, Apartado Postal 4–116, Itzimná, 97000, Mérida, Yucatán, México
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
LeVan KE, Holway DA. Ant–aphid interactions increase ant floral visitation and reduce plant reproduction via decreased pollinator visitation. Ecology 2015. [DOI: 10.1890/14-0058.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
|
25
|
Staab M, Blüthgen N, Klein AM. Tree diversity alters the structure of a tri-trophic network in a biodiversity experiment. OIKOS 2014. [DOI: 10.1111/oik.01723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Staab
- Inst. of Ecology, Leuphana Univ. of Lüneburg; Scharnhorststraße 1 DE-21335 Lüneburg Germany
- Chair of Nature Conservation and Landscape Ecology, Inst. of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Univ. of Freiburg; Tennenbacherstraße 4 DE-79106 Freiburg Germany
| | - Nico Blüthgen
- Dept of Biology; Technical Univ. Darmstadt; Schnittspahnstraße 10 DE-64287 Darmstadt Germany
| | - Alexandra-Maria Klein
- Inst. of Ecology, Leuphana Univ. of Lüneburg; Scharnhorststraße 1 DE-21335 Lüneburg Germany
- Chair of Nature Conservation and Landscape Ecology, Inst. of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Univ. of Freiburg; Tennenbacherstraße 4 DE-79106 Freiburg Germany
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Pringle EG, Novo A, Ableson I, Barbehenn RV, Vannette RL. Plant-derived differences in the composition of aphid honeydew and their effects on colonies of aphid-tending ants. Ecol Evol 2014; 4:4065-79. [PMID: 25505534 PMCID: PMC4242560 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.1277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2014] [Revised: 09/14/2014] [Accepted: 09/15/2014] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
In plant-ant-hemipteran interactions, ants visit plants to consume the honeydew produced by phloem-feeding hemipterans. If genetically based differences in plant phloem chemistry change the chemical composition of hemipteran honeydew, then the plant's genetic constitution could have indirect effects on ants via the hemipterans. If such effects change ant behavior, they could feed back to affect the plant itself. We compared the chemical composition of honeydews produced by Aphis nerii aphid clones on two milkweed congeners, Asclepias curassavica and Asclepias incarnata, and we measured the responses of experimental Linepithema humile ant colonies to these honeydews. The compositions of secondary metabolites, sugars, and amino acids differed significantly in the honeydews from the two plant species. Ant colonies feeding on honeydew derived from A. incarnata recruited in higher numbers to artificial diet, maintained higher queen and worker dry weight, and sustained marginally more workers than ants feeding on honeydew derived from A. curassavica. Ants feeding on honeydew from A. incarnata were also more exploratory in behavioral assays than ants feeding from A. curassavica. Despite performing better when feeding on the A. incarnata honeydew, ant workers marginally preferred honeydew from A. curassavica to honeydew from A. incarnata when given a choice. Our results demonstrate that plant congeners can exert strong indirect effects on ant colonies by means of plant-species-specific differences in aphid honeydew chemistry. Moreover, these effects changed ant behavior and thus could feed back to affect plant performance in the field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth G Pringle
- Michigan Society of Fellows, University of Michigan Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48109 ; Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Michigan Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48109 ; School of Natural Resources and Environment, University of Michigan Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48109
| | - Alexandria Novo
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Michigan Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48109
| | - Ian Ableson
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Michigan Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48109
| | - Raymond V Barbehenn
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Michigan Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48109 ; Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48109
| | - Rachel L Vannette
- Department of Biology, Stanford University Stanford, California, 94305
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Abdala-Roberts L, Mooney KA. Ecological and evolutionary consequences of plant genotype diversity in a tri-trophic system. Ecology 2014. [DOI: 10.1890/13-2029.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
|
28
|
Positive effects of plant genotypic and species diversity on anti-herbivore defenses in a tropical tree species. PLoS One 2014; 9:e105438. [PMID: 25141305 PMCID: PMC4139366 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0105438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2014] [Accepted: 07/18/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite increasing evidence that plant intra- and inter-specific diversity increases primary productivity, and that such effect may in turn cascade up to influence herbivores, there is little information about plant diversity effects on plant anti-herbivore defenses, the relative importance of different sources of plant diversity, and the mechanisms for such effects. For example, increased plant growth at high diversity may lead to reduced investment in defenses via growth-defense trade-offs. Alternatively, positive effects of plant diversity on plant growth may lead to increased herbivore abundance which in turn leads to a greater investment in plant defenses. The magnitude of trait variation underlying diversity effects is usually greater among species than among genotypes within a given species, so plant species diversity effects on resource use by producers as well as on higher trophic levels should be stronger than genotypic diversity effects. Here we compared the relative importance of plant genotypic and species diversity on anti-herbivore defenses and whether such effects are mediated indirectly via diversity effects on plant growth and/or herbivore damage. To this end, we performed a large-scale field experiment where we manipulated genotypic diversity of big-leaf mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla) and tree species diversity, and measured effects on mahogany growth, damage by the stem-boring specialist caterpillar Hypsipyla grandella, and defensive traits (polyphenolics and condensed tannins in stem and leaves). We found that both forms of plant diversity had positive effects on stem (but not leaf) defenses. However, neither source of diversity influenced mahogany growth, and diversity effects on defenses were not mediated by either growth-defense trade-offs or changes in stem-borer damage. Although the mechanism(s) of diversity effects on plant defenses are yet to be determined, our study is one of the few to test for and show producer diversity effects on plant chemical defenses.
Collapse
|
29
|
Marquis M, Del Toro I, Pelini SL. Insect mutualisms buffer warming effects on multiple trophic levels. Ecology 2014; 95:9-13. [DOI: 10.1890/13-0760.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
|
30
|
Zou Y, Sang W, Bai F, Axmacher JC. Relationships between plant diversity and the abundance and α-diversity of predatory ground beetles (Coleoptera: Carabidae) in a mature Asian temperate forest ecosystem. PLoS One 2013; 8:e82792. [PMID: 24376582 PMCID: PMC3869730 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0082792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2013] [Accepted: 10/29/2013] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
A positive relationship between plant diversity and both abundance and diversity of predatory arthropods is postulated by the Enemies Hypothesis, a central ecological top-down control hypothesis. It has been supported by experimental studies and investigations of agricultural and grassland ecosystems, while evidence from more complex mature forest ecosystems is limited. Our study was conducted on Changbai Mountain in one of the last remaining large pristine temperate forest environments in China. We used predatory ground beetles (Coleoptera: Carabidae) as target taxon to establish the relationship between phytodiversity and their activity abundance and diversity. Results showed that elevation was the only variable included in both models predicting carabid activity abundance and α-diversity. Shrub diversity was negatively and herb diversity positively correlated with beetle abundance, while shrub diversity was positively correlated with beetle α-diversity. Within the different forest types, a negative relationship between plant diversity and carabid activity abundance was observed, which stands in direct contrast to the Enemies Hypothesis. Furthermore, plant species density did not predict carabid α-diversity. In addition, the density of herbs, which is commonly believed to influence carabid movement, had little impact on the beetle activity abundance recorded on Changbai Mountain. Our study indicates that in a relatively large and heterogeneous mature forest area, relationships between plant and carabid diversity are driven by variations in environmental factors linked with altitudinal change. In addition, traditional top-down control theories that are suitable in explaining diversity patterns in ecosystems of low diversity appear to play a much less pronounced role in highly complex forest ecosystems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yi Zou
- UCL Department of Geography, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Weiguo Sang
- The State Key Laboratory of Vegetation and Environmental Change, Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- College of Life and Environmental Science, Minzu University of China, Beijing, China
- * E-mail: (WS); (JCA)
| | - Fan Bai
- The State Key Laboratory of Vegetation and Environmental Change, Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jan Christoph Axmacher
- UCL Department of Geography, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- * E-mail: (WS); (JCA)
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Auersperg AMI, Laumer IB, Bugnyar T. Goffin cockatoos wait for qualitative and quantitative gains but prefer 'better' to 'more'. Biol Lett 2013; 9:20121092. [PMID: 23485873 DOI: 10.1098/rsbl.2012.1092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Evidence for flexible impulse control over food consumption is rare in non-human animals. So far, only primates and corvids have been shown to be able to fully inhibit the consumption of a desirable food item in anticipation for a gain in quality or quantity longer than a minute. We tested Goffin cockatoos (Cacatua goffini) in an exchange task. Subjects were able to bridge delays of up to 80 s for a preferred food quality and up to 20 s for a higher quantity, providing the first evidence for temporal discounting in birds that do not cache food.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A M I Auersperg
- Department of Cognitive Biology, University of Vienna, , Althanstrasse 14, 1090 Vienna, Austria.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
Moreira X, Mooney KA. Influence of plant genetic diversity on interactions between higher trophic levels. Biol Lett 2013; 9:20130133. [PMID: 23485879 DOI: 10.1098/rsbl.2013.0133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
While the ecological consequences of plant diversity have received much attention, the mechanisms by which intraspecific diversity affects associated communities remains understudied. We report on a field experiment documenting the effects of patch diversity in the plant Baccharis salicifolia (genotypic monocultures versus polycultures of four genotypes), ants (presence versus absence) and their interaction on ant-tended aphids, ants and parasitic wasps, and the mechanistic pathways by which diversity influences their multi-trophic interactions. Five months after planting, polycultures (versus monocultures) had increased abundances of aphids (threefold), ants (3.2-fold) and parasitoids (1.7-fold) owing to non-additive effects of genetic diversity. The effect on aphids was direct, as plant genetic diversity did not mediate ant-aphid, parasitoid-aphid or ant-parasitoid interactions. This increase in aphid abundance occurred even though plant growth (and thus aphid resources) was not higher in polycultures. The increase in ants and parasitoids was an indirect effect, due entirely to higher aphid abundance. Ants reduced parasitoid abundance by 60 per cent, but did not affect aphid abundance or plant growth, and these top-down effects were equivalent between monocultures and polycultures. In summary, intraspecific plant diversity did not increase primary productivity, but nevertheless had strong effects across multiple trophic levels, and effects on both herbivore mutualists and enemies could be predicted entirely as an extension of plant-herbivore interactions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xoaquín Moreira
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California, , Irvine, CA 92697, USA.
| | | |
Collapse
|