What makes a volatile organic compound a reliable indicator of insect herbivory

摘要: Plants that are subject to insect herbivory emit a blend of so-called herbivore-induced plant volatiles (HIPVs), which only few serve as cues for the carnivorous enemies locate their host. We lack understanding HIPVs reliable indicators herbivory. Here, we take modelling approach elucidate physicochemical and physiological properties contribute information value HIPV. A leaf-level HIPV synthesis emission model is developed parameterized poplar. Next, concentrations within canopy inferred function dispersion, transport chemical degradation compounds. show ability reveal varies from almost perfect no better than chance interacts with conditions. Model predictions matched well leaf-emission measurements field laboratory assays. The class compound belongs predicted signalling minor extent, whereas characteristics such its reaction rate atmospheric oxidants, biosynthesis upon volatility were much more important predictors. This study shows power merging fields plant–insect interactions chemistry research increase our ecological significance HIPVs.