Plant Surface Properties in Chemical Ecology

摘要: The surface of the primary aerial parts terrestrial plants is covered by a cuticle, which has crucial autecological functions, but also serves as an important interface in trophic interactions. chemical and physical properties this layer contribute to these functions. cuticle composed cuticular proper, epicuticular waxes. Whereas cutin fraction polyester-type biopolymer hydroxyl hydroxyepoxy fatty acids, waxes are complex mixture long-chain aliphatic cyclic compounds. These highly lipophilic compounds determine hydrophobic quality plant and, together with microstructure waxes, vary species-specific manner. physicochemical characteristics certain optical features, limit transpiration, influence adhesion particles organisms. In ecology, where interactions between organisms underlying (allelo-) principles studied, it what present at environment. Several useful equations can allow estimation dissolution given organic molecule its transport properties. implementation exemplified examining glucosinolates, play role other An accurate characterization needed understand ecological significance. Here, we summarize current knowledge about cuticles their microorganisms, phytophagous insects, antagonists.