Isoprene emissions influence herbivore feeding decisions

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Abstract
Isoprene (C5H8, 2‐methyl 1,3‐butadiene) is synthesized and emitted by many, but not all, plants. Unlike other related volatile organic compounds (monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes), isoprene has not been shown to mediate plant–herbivore interactions. Here, for the first time, we show, in feeding choice tests using isoprene‐emitting transgenic tobacco plants (Nicotiana tabacumcv. Samsun) and non‐emitting azygous control plants, that isoprene detersManduca sextacaterpillars from feeding. This avoidance behaviour was confirmed using an artificial (isoprene‐emitting and non‐emitting control) diet. Bothin vivoandin vitroexperiments showed that isoprene can activate feeding avoidance behaviour in this system with a dose–response effect on caterpillar behaviour and an isoprene emission threshold level of −2 s−1.

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