The Role of the Extrafloral Nectaries of Catalpa Speciosa in Limiting Herbivory and Increasing Fruit Production

摘要: The leaves of Catalpa speciosa (Bignoniaceae) have extrafloral nectaries that are active from early June to September. Peak nectar secretion occurs in late and July when the eggs young larvae first generation principal herbivore, Ceratomia catalpae (Sphingidae), present. Leaves been damaged by this herbivore secrete significantly more than undamaged leaves. visited various species ants, ladybird beetles, a parasitoid. These predaceous insects attack and/or remove herbivore. A series ant exclusion experiments show branches without ants fewer removed, leaf herbivory, produce mature fruits control (with ants). data suggest C. its subsequent harvesting is mutually beneficial both plant insects.