Tree genotypes affect rock lichens and understory plants: examples of trophic-independent interactions.

ABSTRACT: Genetic variation in foundation tree species can strongly influence communities of trophic-dependent organisms, such as herbivorous insects, pollinators, and mycorrhizal fungi. However, the extent and manner in which this variation results in unexpected interactions that reach trophic-independent organisms remains poorly understood, even though these interactions are essential to understanding complex ecosystems. In pinyon-juniper woodland at Sunset Crater (Arizona, USA), we studied pinyon (Pinus edulis) that were either resistant or susceptible to stem-boring moths (Dioryctria albovittella). Moth herbivory alters the architecture of susceptible trees, thereby modifying the microhabitat beneath their crowns. We tested the hypothesis that this interaction between herbivore and tree genotype

SUBMITTER: Reese Naesborg R 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9285738 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature