Effects of herbivory and plant conditioning on the population dynamics of spider mites

Abstract

Plants vary in their resistance to tetranychid spider mites, and this can have profound effects on spider-mite population dynamics. Such variation can be attributable to many factors. In this review, however, we focus on how previous or concurrent feeding by phytophagous hervivores influences expression of plant resistance to spider mites.Induced resistance is a change in the host plant in response to extrinsic stimuli, resulting in reduced host suitability for the population growth of spider mites. We begin our review by summarizing the different ways in which spider mites and plants interact to produce induced resistance-like phenomena. We then discuss a number of hypotheses which address the mechanisms underlying induced resistance and end by suggesting agricultural applications. Although the potential use of induced resistance to manage spider mites is apparent, progress in this area will depend on a better understanding of the mechanisms involved and their associated costs and benefits to the plant.