STRUCTURE OF THE ENCOUNTER BETWEEN GOLDENROD (SOLIDAGO-ALTISSIMA) AND ITS DIVERSE INSECT FAUNA

Examined population responses of 17 insect species to genotypic variation exhibited by clones of Solidago altissima. Cluster analysis on the genetic correlations between the insects' responses produced four groups, termed "herbivore suites', that are attracted and repelled by similar plant genotypes (and their underlying sets of traits). There was no obvious correspondence of an insect's phylogenetic affinity, host range, or feeding style with its membership in a particular suite. The genetic variability of the plant population will be reflected in the diversity and composition of the insect community. Selection caused by one herbivore species can result in increased resistances to other rarer species whose responses are correlated with those of the damaging species. Selection by suites of herbivores may be more intense and less variable than selection by individual insect species, especially when many species are rare. -from Authors