Testing optimal defense theory: Root resistance selection in chicory (Cichorium intybus) reduces foliar defense and alters aphid performance and feeding behavior.

Abstract excerpt

BACKGROUND: Plants are constantly exposed to a wide range of herbivores at both aboveground (AG) and belowground (BG) levels, involving multiple constitutive defenses in leaves and roots. However, the Optimal Defense Theory predicts that the energy cost of defenses prevents plants from defending all organs equally. In an agroeconomic context, selecting genotypes for their root-specific resistance may therefore...

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