AI Article Synopsis

  • When certain plants face attacks from herbivorous insects, they release specific volatile compounds, mainly terpenes, to attract predatory arthropods that can help control the herbivore population.
  • This defense mechanism presents an innovative and eco-friendly method for protecting crops from pests.
  • Advances in biochemistry and genetics now allow for the potential engineering of crops to enhance terpene emissions, helping these plants attract beneficial predators while maintaining their overall defense capabilities.

Article Abstract

When attacked by herbivorous insects or mites, some plant species call on other arthropods for help. They emit mixtures of volatile compounds, dominated by terpenes, to attract carnivorous arthropods that prey on or parasitise herbivores and so reduce further damage. This fascinating defence strategy offers a new, environmentally friendly approach to crop protection. Using recent advances in the biochemistry and molecular genetics of terpene biosynthesis, it should now be possible to engineer crop plants that release terpenes for attracting herbivore enemies. By introducing or selectively altering the existing rate of terpene emission and composition, plant breeders could enable attacked plants to attract enemies and reduce additional herbivory, without compromising the effectiveness of other modes of defence.

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http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/s0958-1669(03)00025-9DOI Listing

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