| Abstract Detail
Ecological Section Susko, David [1], Superfisky, Beth [2]. Effect of Pattern of Defoliation on Performance of Canola (Brassica napus). We conducted two experiments that investigated how the method and location of artificial defoliation influenced growth, reproduction, and allocation in canola, Brassica napus. In one experiment, 0%, 25%, or 50% of leaf area was removed by cutting circular holes at three possible locations: concentrated at either the base of leaves or at their tips, or dispersed throughout leaf blades. Plants fully compensated for such damage; reproduction and allocation were unaffected by either defoliation intensity or wound location. In a second experiment, we again initiated three intensities of defoliation: non-damaged plants served as controls, while others had 25% or 50% of their leaf areas removed. The method of removal in the second experiment consisted of either cutting multiple, similar-sized, circular holes or single, contiguous patches of a leaf blade. At the highest defoliation intensity reproductive output and allocation were significantly less in plants treated with the former method than the latter, even though an equivalent initial amount of leaf area was removed in both treatments. We conclude that simulated herbivory studies must account for not only how much of the plant is damaged, but also the pattern of leaf damage itself, since both factors contribute to a plant’s physiological and ecological responses to grazing.
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1 - University of Michigan Dearborn, Department of Natural Sciences, Dearborn, Michigan, 48128, USA
2 - University of Michigan-Dearborn, Natural Sciences, Dearborn, MI, 48128, USA
Keywords:
reproductive allocation
simulated herbivory.
Presentation Type: Poster:Posters for Sections
Session: P
Location: Ball Room & Party Room/SUB
Date: Monday, July 28th, 2008
Time: 12:30 PM
Number: PEC028
Abstract ID:631 |
