Why in the News
A study published in Nature has found that oak trees in temperate forests delay budburst and leaf emergence after heavy caterpillar infestation to reduce insect damage.
Key Findings of the Study
- Oak trees delayed spring leaf emergence by about:
- Three days after severe caterpillar attacks
- Study conducted across:
- 60 oak forest sites
- Over 2,400 km
- During 2017 to 2021
What is Budburst
- Stage when tree buds open and new leaves emerge during spring
Why Trees Delay Leafing
- Caterpillars depend on soft fresh leaves immediately after hatching
- Delayed leaf emergence creates temporary food shortage for insects
- Result:
- Reduced caterpillar survival
- Lower leaf damage
Major Outcomes
- Leaf damage reduced by nearly: 55%
- Delayed leafing found more energy efficient than chemical defence mechanisms
| [2022] If you travel through the Himalayas, you are likely to see which of the following plants naturally growing there? 1. Oak 2. Rhododendron 3. Sandal wood Select the correct answer using the code given below: a) 1 and 2 only b) 3 only c) 1 and 3 only d) 1, 2 and 3 |
