Integrating optimal foraging and optimal oviposition theory in plant-insect research

J Scheirs, Luc De Bruyn

    Research output: Contribution to journalA1: Web of Science-articlepeer-review

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    Abstract

    The current approach for studying host selection by phytophagous insects is mainly based on optimal oviposition theory, i.e. the preference–performance hypothesis. Almost no attention has been given to optimal foraging theory. However, recent papers and additional evidence given in this work illustrate that also optimal foraging may shape host preference patterns of phytophagous insects. Therefore and because optimal foraging and optimal oviposition may oppose conflicting needs to phytophagous insects, we plea for an integration of optimal foraging and optimal oviposition in plant–insect research. We argue how this may improve our understanding of plant–insect interactions.
    Original languageEnglish
    JournalOikos (København)
    Volume96
    Issue number1
    Pages (from-to)187-191
    Number of pages5
    Publication statusPublished - 2002

    Thematic list

    • Insects

    EWI Biomedical sciences

    • B380-animal-ethology

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