ISSN:
1570-7458
Keywords:
Japanese beetle
;
Scarabaeidae
;
food-aversion learning
;
host-plant selection
;
polyphagy
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Biology
Notes:
Abstract It is commonly held that food-aversion learning should be more prevalent in polyphagous herbivores than in specialists. We tested the ability of Popillia japonica, a polyphagous scarab, to learn avoidance of a palatable but illness-inducing plant. Beetles that feed on flowers of geranium, Pelargonium × hortorum, became paralyzed, although most recovered within 24 h. In choice tests, naive beetles strongly preferred geranium petals over leaves of linden, Tilia cordata, a highly suitable host. Experienced beetles maintained this preference although it resulted in repeated bouts of paralysis. Fecundity was 〉10 times higher for beetles fed linden foliage for 2 wk than for those fed only geranium. Nevertheless, when a surplus of both foods was provided, the beetles fed mainly on geranium, resulting in greatly reduced fecundity. These results contradict the view that generalists should show propensity for food-aversion learning. Indeed, in this case, P. japonica continued to prefer the toxic plant, compromising its fitness.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1023/A:1003641021691
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