Signals from aphid-infested neighboring plants modify aphid performance and host plant biochemistry

Abstract

Plants release signals to communicate with their environment. When damaged by insect herbivores, plants emit herbivore-induced plant volatiles (HIPVs) that can affect pest performance, recruit biocontrol agents, and trigger defence responses in neighboring plants. While plant communication via HIPVs has been well-documented over the past few decades, key aspects, such as the specific biochemical mechanisms underlying defence activation in neighboring plants and the variation in response to herbivory, remain poorly understood. This study aims to investigate the effect of HIPVs released by aphid (Brevicoryne brassicae)-infested Brassica napus (emitter) plants on neighboring uninfested conspecific plants (receiver). After 48 h exposure, emitter plants were discarded, and receiver plants were utilized in bioassays to assess aphid performance (fecundity and survival), preference, as well as amino acid and glucosinolates contents of receiver host plants. Results revealed that receiver plants showed a significant reduction in aphid fecundity, although no significant effect on aphid survival was observed. Aphid feeding preference was significantly altered, with B. brassicae showing a reduced preference for receiver plants. Additionally, significant increases in some key amino acids and total concentrations were recorded in receiver plants. Glucosinolates (GSs) analysis showed a significant change in total GS content, with a significant increase in the individual GSs, glucoiberin (GIB), and glucoraphanin (GRA). Current findings provide evidence that receiver plants activate their defence mechanism against B. brassicae by altering amino acid and glucosinolate levels. This study highlights the potential of HIPVs to enhance sustainable pest management strategies.

Keywords: Brassica; aphid; conspecific plants; herbivore-induced plant volatiles; induced defence; plant–plant communication.