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Willow regrowth after galling increases bud production through increased shoot survival
Masahiro Nakamura1, Takayuki Ohgushi
1Center for Ecological Research, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan. masahiro@lowtem.hokudai.ac.jp
Environmental Entomology
|June 2, 2007
Summary
Gall midge herbivory on willow shoots increases their survival and bud production. This insect-induced regrowth enhances future reproductive and vegetative potential in Salix eriocarpa.
Area of Science:
- Plant-insect interactions
- Ecology
- Entomology
Background:
- Insect herbivory impacts plant performance, with effects varying from negative to positive.
- The stem gall midge, Rabdophaga rigidae, induces stem galls on Salix eriocarpa shoots.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of Rabdophaga rigidae galling on the survival, growth, and bud production of Salix eriocarpa shoots.
- To understand the mechanisms behind gall-induced changes in plant development.
Main Methods:
- Field observations and measurements of galled and ungalled Salix eriocarpa shoots.
- Comparison of shoot survival, growth parameters (length, basal diameter), and bud counts (reproductive, vegetative, dormant) between treatments.
Main Results:
- Galled shoots exhibited thicker basal diameters and more lateral shoots compared to ungalled shoots.
- Despite similar shoot lengths, galled shoots showed significantly higher survival rates, attributed to increased basal diameter.
- Increased shoot survival led to approximately double the production of reproductive, vegetative, and dormant buds in the subsequent spring.
Conclusions:
- Galling by Rabdophaga rigidae can promote willow regrowth and increase bud production.
- Enhanced shoot survival, a consequence of galling, is a key factor in increased bud output.
- This study highlights a potentially positive outcome of insect herbivory on plant reproductive potential.
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