Stinging Trichome Density and Morphology of Three Nettle Species Reflect Mountain Gorillas' Feeding Behavior.

ABSTRACT: Plants have developed defense mechanisms against herbivory, including stinging trichomes. Unlike smaller trichomes, which deter insects, the larger, biomineralized, stinging trichomes in Urticaceae defend plants from mammals. The trichome tip breaks off, pierces the skin, and injects irritants, causing an immediate sensation of pain. The herbivore will cease consuming the plant. Some herbivores process and consume nettles. Volcanoes National Park (VNP) in Rwanda provides habitat for several large folivores, including the endangered mountain gorilla (Gorilla beringei beringei). VNP mountain gorillas feed on stinging nettle species, including Laportea alatipes, Urtica massaica, and Girardinia bullosa. We investigated the link between the importance (proportion) of

SUBMITTER: Nyandwi A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12283244 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature