High intraspecific variability and previous experience affect polyphenol metabolism in polyphagous Lymantria mathura caterpillars.

ABSTRACT: Polyphagous insect herbivores feed on multiple host-plant species and face a highly variable chemical landscape. Comparative studies of polyphagous herbivore metabolism across a range of plants is an ideal approach for exploring how intra- and interspecific chemical variation shapes species interactions. We used polyphagous caterpillars of Lymantria mathura (Erebidae, Lepidoptera) to explore mechanisms that may contribute to its ability to feed on various hosts. We focused on intraspecific variation in polyphenol metabolism, the fates of individual polyphenols, and the role of previous feeding experience on polyphenol metabolism and leaf consumption. We collected the caterpillars from Acer amoenum (Sapindaceae), Carpinus cordata (Betulaceae), and Quercus crispula

SUBMITTER: Volf M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10857923 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature