Behavioral, Physiological, and Molecular Mechanisms Underlying the Adaptation of <i>Helicoverpa armigera</i> to the Fruits of a Marginal Host: Walnut (<i>Juglans regia</i>).

ABSTRACT: In northwest China, changes in cultivation patterns and the scarcity of preferred hosts have forced Helicoverpa armigera to feed on the marginal host walnut (Juglans regia). However, the mechanisms allowing this adaptation remain poorly understood. Here, we investigated the behavioral, physiological, and molecular mechanisms underlying the local adaptation of this pest to walnut fruits. The green husk and shell generally contained higher levels of phytochemicals than the kernel. Bioassays revealed that the phytochemical-rich green husk and shell were less preferred, reduced larval fitness and growth, and elevated the activity of detoxification enzymes compared to the nutrient-rich kernel, which were further supported by a larger number of upregulated detoxification genes in i

SUBMITTER: Li H 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11478790 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature