New frontiers in belowground ecology for plant protection from root-feeding insects

Johnson, Scott N.; Benefer, Carly M.; Frew, Adam; Griffiths, Bryan S.; Hartley, Susan E.; Karley, Alison J.; Rasmann, Sergio; Schumann, Mario; Sonnemann, Illja; Robert, Christelle A. M. (2016). New frontiers in belowground ecology for plant protection from root-feeding insects. Applied Soil Ecology, 108, pp. 96-107. Elsevier 10.1016/j.apsoil.2016.07.017

Text 2016_ApplSoilEcol_108_96.pdf - Published Version Restricted to registered users only Available under License Publisher holds Copyright. Download (1MB) | Request a copy

Herbivorous insect pests living in the soil represent a significant challenge to food security given their persistence, the acute damage they cause to plants and the difficulties associated with managing their populations. Ecological research effort into rhizosphere interactions has increased dramatically in the last decade and we are beginning to understand, in particular, the ecology of how plants defend themselves against soil-dwelling pests. In this review, we synthesise information about four key ecological mechanisms occurring in the rhizosphere or surrounding soil that confer plant protection against root herbivores. We focus on root tolerance, root resistance via direct physical and chemical defences, particularly via acquisition of silicon-based plant defences, integration of plant mutualists (microbes and entomopathogenic nematodes, EPNs) and the influence of soil history and feedbacks. Their suitability as management tools, current limitations for their application, and the opportunities for development are evaluated. We identify opportunities for synergy between these aspects of rhizosphere ecology, such as mycorrhizal fungi negatively affecting pests at the root-interface but also increasing plant uptake of silicon, which is also known to reduce herbivory. Finally, we set out research priorities for developing potential novel management strategies.

Interest & Impact

Downloads

7 since deposited on 21 Dec 2016
0 in the past 12 months

Citations

5 Citations in Web of Science ®
6 Citations in Scopus

Search

in Google Scholar™

Services

Actions (login required)

Edit item

Actions (login required)

Edit item