Altitudinal differences in herbivory on montane Compositae species

Area of Science:

• Ecology
• Botany
• Evolutionary Biology

Background:

• Montane species often have restricted ranges.
• Herbivory is a significant factor influencing plant distribution and survival.
• Lowland environments may present different herbivory pressures compared to higher altitudes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate if increased herbivory in lowlands restricts montane Compositae species ranges.
• To compare herbivory levels on rare montane and widespread species at different altitudes.
• To assess the influence of herbivory on plant phenology and mortality.

Main Methods:

• Transplantation of six Compositae species (three rare montane, three widespread) across an altitudinal gradient.
• Conducting laboratory food choice experiments with mollusc species.
• Monitoring herbivory levels, plant phenology, and mortality in field conditions.

Main Results:

• Laboratory experiments showed varied palatability between paired montane and widespread species.
• Field herbivory levels differed significantly between altitudes and species, partially reflecting lab results.
• Herbivory interacted with plant phenology and affected mortality, with clear differences between lowest and highest sites.

Conclusions:

• Herbivory pressure varies with altitude and plant species, partially explaining range restrictions.
• The relationship between altitude and herbivory is not uniform across all species.
• Complex ecological interactions, including herbivory and phenology, shape plant community structure.