Caterpillars and Fungal Pathogens: Two Co-Occurring Parasites of an Ant-Plant Mutualism
Author Information
Author(s): Roux Olivier, Céréghino Régis, Solano Pascal J., Dejean Alain
Primary Institution: CNRS, Écologie des Forêts de Guyane
Hypothesis
Do caterpillars mainly or even exclusively feed on the food bodies and does this activity increase food body production?
Conclusion
Caterpillars can delay the colonization of Cecropia trees by mutualistic ants but do not effectively protect the trees from a pathogenic fungus.
Supporting Evidence
- Caterpillars were found to feed on food bodies produced by Cecropia trees.
- Fungal pathogens developed on the trees when mutualistic ants were absent.
- Food body production was higher in saplings sheltered by ants compared to those with caterpillars.
Takeaway
Caterpillars live in Cecropia trees and eat the food the trees make for their ant partners, which can make it harder for the ants to come and help the trees.
Methodology
The study involved tagging and observing saplings, measuring food body production, and assessing herbivory and fungal infestation.
Limitations
The study was conducted in specific locations in French Guiana, which may limit the generalizability of the findings.
Participant Demographics
The study focused on Cecropia obtusa saplings and their interactions with caterpillars and ants in French Guiana.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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