The enemy release hypothesis: Herbivory damage on native and non-native plant species

Posthumus, A.M. (2011) The enemy release hypothesis: Herbivory damage on native and non-native plant species. Bachelor's Thesis, Biology.

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Abstract

Introducing non-native species in new natural areas can have a large impact on the existing community. An explanation for the success of these introduced species is mentioned by the enemy release hypothesis (ERH), which states that non-native species leave their enemies like herbivores, parasites and predators behind. The main focus in this review is on herbivory plant interactions. In this case, the ERH can be tested in three different ways. Measure the number of herbivory species on a plant, the number of herbivores on a plant and the damage done by herbivores. In this review we focus on the damage done by herbivores; is there any difference in herbivory damage between native plant species and non-native plant species. Studies discriminated between two approaches: The biogeographical and community approach. When both approaches were combined, nine out of ten articles reviewed found more herbivory damage on the native species compared to the non-native species. After putting some research in perspective, eight out of ten articles found support for the ERH. Further, a few recommendations for future research are made.

Item Type:	Thesis (Bachelor's Thesis)
Degree programme:	Biology
Thesis type:	Bachelor's Thesis
Language:	English
Date Deposited:	15 Feb 2018 07:45
Last Modified:	15 Feb 2018 07:45
URI:	https://fse.studenttheses.ub.rug.nl/id/eprint/9614

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