Plant genetic diversity affects multiple trophic levels and trophic interactions

Area of Science:

• Ecology
• Genetics
• Biodiversity Studies

Background:

• Intraspecific genetic diversity is a key aspect of biodiversity.
• Previous research shows plant genetic diversity positively impacts plant performance.
• The mechanisms by which plant genetic diversity affects plant antagonists across trophic levels remain unclear.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate if plant genetic diversity generally enhances plant performance by reducing antagonist pressure across diverse life forms, ecosystems, and climates.
• To synthesize evidence on the effects of plant genetic diversity on multiple trophic levels.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of 4702 effect sizes from 413 studies.
• Examination of plant genetic diversity's impact on plant antagonists (herbivores, weeds, nematodes, diseases) and beneficial organisms (natural enemies of herbivores).
• Utilized structural equation modeling to determine causal relationships.

Main Results:

• Increased plant genetic diversity reduced the performance of plant antagonists.
• Increased plant genetic diversity enhanced the performance of plants and natural enemies of herbivores.
• Plant genetic diversity partially increased plant performance by mitigating antagonist pressure.

Conclusions:

• Plant genetic diversity influences multiple trophic levels.
• This influence promotes natural pest control in managed systems and herbivore control in natural systems.
• Findings support sustainable plant production through enhanced biodiversity.