Ecological Strategies

Question 1

Tritrophic interactions

Answer 1

Plants emit blend of VOCs when attack - above and below ground
Maize emite E-beta-caryophyllene which travels far - attracts predator of rootworm larvae

Question 2

Stages of ecological strategies

Answer 2

1. Plant exposed to stress so innate immune system activated; production of enzymes involved in biosynthesis of secondary metabolites (antimicrobial function)
2. Impact on microbial community in rhizosphere - recruit or kill off microbes so reduce biodiversity
3. Recruit beneficial microbes to fight pests; competition w other microbes and deprive pathogens of nutrients

Question 3

Downy mildew infected plants

Answer 3

3 bacterial species selected from soil to defend against mildew
Effective together but not alone
Prime plant for defence
Can also promote growth when no disease present

2nd cultivation: new plants grown in soil that was previously exposed to mildew were more resistance - primed and beneficial microbes in rhizosphere