Previous studies have demonstrated that viruses alter the scent of plants, but they have not explained why insects are always attracted to infected plants.
A recent study funded by the European Union and the Natural Environment Research Council (UK) has shed light on this phenomenon.
Biologists at the University of Bristol (UK) utilized a series of photographs taken with polarized filters and determined that the leaves of virus-infected plants are less polarized in light compared to the leaves of healthy plants. This allows sap-sucking pests to recognize the infected plants. Subsequently, when these pests fly to healthy plants, they transmit the virus. The cause of the reduced light polarization stems from the waxy layer of the leaf epidermis.
A harmful leaf-eating insect for crops. (Photo: iStockphoto).
Scientists noted that the viruses in plants infected by pests have a different gene profile compared to viruses in plants infected by non-insect sources.
The spread of plant pathogens significantly reduces crop yields and increasingly threatens food security. Understanding the mechanisms of virus transmission can help scientists minimize and prevent the spread of diseases.
Professor Gary Foster from the University of Bristol (UK) stated: “The transmission of viruses in plants by insects has a significant impact on agriculture and the environment.”
These findings are expected to encourage scientists to delve deeper into research aimed at alleviating global food security concerns. This research can complement previous studies concluding that plant leaves can detect light waves and adjust their growth rates accordingly when competing with neighboring plants. By improving growth rates and reducing the risk of virus infection, crop yields can significantly increase.
The study was published in the journal PLoS ONE on April 24.
