Caterpillars Self-Medicate with Plant Toxins
Author Information
Author(s): Michael S. Singer, Kevi C. Mace, Elizabeth A. Bernays
Primary Institution: Wesleyan University
Hypothesis
Self-medication behavior in caterpillars improves fitness when infected by parasites.
Conclusion
Parasitized caterpillars that ingested plant toxins had better survival rates compared to those that did not.
Supporting Evidence
- Parasitized caterpillars showed a 17% increase in survival on a diet containing plant toxins.
- Unparasitized caterpillars had a 16% reduction in survival when consuming the same toxins.
- Parasitized caterpillars were more likely to consume larger amounts of plant toxins.
Takeaway
Caterpillars eat special plants to help them feel better when they are sick, but eating those plants can be bad for healthy caterpillars.
Methodology
The study involved manipulative experiments testing the effects of plant toxins on the survival of parasitized and unparasitized caterpillars.
Limitations
The variability in individual caterpillar responses to parasitism may complicate the interpretation of results.
Participant Demographics
The study focused on woolly bear caterpillars (Grammia incorrupta) and their interactions with parasitoids.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p=0.027
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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