FOR201H1 Chapter Notes - Chapter 13: Nectar, Phenology, Herbivore
Document Summary
Chapter 13 - nature"s society - life"s interactions: Plants have evolved a variety of biotic, chemical, mechanical, and phenological means by which to survive herbivores. The ability of herbivores to overcome this defences governs the functioning of tropical rain forest webs, as well as nutrient recycling and community diversity. Physical defenses are found in the understorey. Almost all forest plants contain chemical compounds to deter or poison. Many wooden plants exude fluids when damaged to interfere with feeding, repel, heal, prevent infections, be toxic. Herbivory of young leaves is prevented by investing in diverse chemical defenses. Reducing leaf expansion time can minimize the period of vulnerability. Herbivory represents a major cost to plants, as defenses are expensive to product and maintain. Many plants bring in defenders in exchange for protection of systenance. Ants aggressively deter potential herbivores and liana seedlings. Ants save resources by removing the need to invest in secondary defense compounds.