ISSN:
1573-1561
Keywords:
condensed tannin
;
procyanidin
;
blackbrush
;
bitterbrush
;
plant defense
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Biology
,
Chemistry and Pharmacology
Notes:
Abstract Condensed tannins were isolated from bitterbnish (Purshia tridentata) and blackbrush (Coleogyne ramosissima). Structural analyses showed that both tannins were procyanidins of similar polymer length. The overall stereochemistries at C-3 and C-4, however, differed between the two tannins. These changes in stereochemistry resulted in blackbrush tannins being less preferred than bitterbrush tannins when offered to snowshoe hares (Lepus americanus). It is unlikely that differences in protein-precipitating abilities are the cause for the preference of the bitterbrush over the blackbrush tannins. Instead, we hypothesize that condensed tannins may be depolymerized and absorbed following ingestion. Differences in tannin structure can lead to different depolymerized products and rates of depolymerization, both of which may affect herbivore preferences.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF01017463
