Plant-insect interactions under agroecosystems: an overview of ecological implications for future research

Abstract

Plants and insects have co-evolved over millions of years, resulting in complex and dynamic interactions that have shaped the biodiversity of our planet. Plant-insect relationships may exhibit features of mutualism, antagonism and commensalism. Plant-insect interactions have significant implications for agroecosystem functioning and services. Thus, understanding the complex relationships between plants and insects is critical for sustainable agriculture and ecosystem management. These interactions are also critical to the interplay between agroecosystems and their ecological implications for the sustainability of agriculture production. This review aimed to explore the chemical, molecular and ecological interactions between agriculture and insects for the benefit of agroecosystems. Literature synthesis and analysis based on a thorough compilation of several investigations were carried out on plant-insect interactions using relevant key terms and criteria. Curation of data was based on databases and resources such as Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, PubMed, PubChem, and Gene Ontology. The evolution of a range of adaptations by insects to exploit plant resources, as well as the diversity of chemical and molecular mechanisms in plants as defense strategies are also highlighted. Moreover, issues of pest management, natural enemies, soil health and nutrient recycling and pollination that are pertinent to these interactions are discussed. Improved plant-insect interactions can result from encouraging habitat restoration by creating or restoring habitats for beneficial insects, such as by planting native flowering plants or providing bees with places to nest. Interaction between plants and insects can also be improved by promoting conservation and bolstering conservation practices in agroecosystems.

Keywords

• Plant-insect interaction
• plant defenses
• ecosystem
• pollinators
• herbivores
• Manuel Tejada, Universidad de Sevilla, Sevilla, Spain