An assessment of herbivore damage and the enemy release hypothesis as an explanation for the success of the woody invasive Lonicera maackii

Abstract

<p>The 'enemy release hypothesis' argues that when an exotic species is introduced to a novel habitat, it experiences a release from regulation by herbivores resulting in increased distribution, abundance, and vigor. This study aims to assess the amount and incidence of herbivory occurring on L. maackii in edge and interior habitats. In October of 2008, leaves were taken from shrubs located in interior and edge habitat from 8 natural areas in Ohio. A follow up study was conducted in 2009, which included multiple sampling dates and a separation long and short shoots. Leaves were assessed for the amount and type of damage. For the 2008 season, approximately 70% of leaves had no herbivory and the damage present on the remaining leaves was between 1-5%. Of those experiencing herbivory, 85% were damaged by chewing. Edge habitat sustained more damage than the interior. Damage rates from this study revealed that levels of herbivory experienced by L. maackii are likely too low to impact the fitness of these shrubs. These findings indicate 'enemy release' may contribute to the success of L. maackii. Future studies will be conducted to further clarify the role of ERH in the invasion biology of L. maackii in Ohio.</p><p>This presentation occurred at the Wright State University Campus-Wide Celebration of Research, Scholarship and Creative Activities on April 16, 2010</p>