Ecosystem Engineering by Insect Herbivores: Non-trophic Interactions in Terrestrial Ecosystems

Abstract

Ecosystem engineering is recognized as a relevant non-trophic interaction with overall positive effects on biodiversity. Ecosystem engineers (organisms that modify or create new habitats) are distributed in all type of ecosystems, but they are particularly abundant among insect herbivores. Ecosystem engineering by insect herbivores occurs as the result of structural modification of plants, which can involve specialized adaptations to manipulate the tissues and physiology of their host plants. Recent research suggests that these adaptations could play an important role in the evolution of plant-insect interactions and insect diversification. In this chapter, I present a review of ecosystem engineering by insect herbivores, discussing the diversity and evolutionary origins of the main insect herbivore groups acting as ecosystem engineers, with a special focus on endophagy and plant manipulation strategies that enable insects to create new habitats. I also discuss the mechanisms and effects of habitat modification on arthropod communities associated with the modified habitats, as well as the evolutionary consequences of habitat modification. A qualitative review of the arthropod community associated with habitats engineered by different guilds of insect herbivores is presented. Finally, future directions and perspectives regarding key questions for further research are identified.