Leaf traits induce the feeding preference of a shredder of the genus Triplectides Kolenati, 1859 (Trichoptera) in an Atlantic Forest stream,Brazil: a test with native and exotic leaves |
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Authors: | Cinthia G. Casotti Walace P. Kiffer Jr. |
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Affiliation: | Laboratory of Aquatic Insect Ecology, University of Vila Velha, Vila Velha, Brazil |
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Abstract: | This study assessed the feeding preference of larvae of Triplectides sp. (Trichoptera, Leptoceridae) exposed to leaves of native (Hoffmannia dusenii Standley, 1931) and exotic (Eucalyptus globulus Labillardiere, 1799) trees. We hypothesized that, regardless of the origin of the leaves, larval preference is determined mainly by leaf anatomy and quality. Leaves from both species were conditioned with and without nutrient enrichment (NPK), and the four food items were offered in paired combinations to 162 larvae. Larval preference varied according to leaf combinations. In treatments containing both species, larvae preferred to feed on H. dusenii because of softer tissues and anatomical structure. The only exception was the treatment containing discs of enriched E. globulus and non-enriched H. dusenii where enhanced microbial activity on enriched leaves provided a softer resource to shredders. Our results corroborate the initial hypothesis and suggest that introduction of exotic leaves and changes in nutrient availability may affect shredder activity in streams and, consequently, organic-matter processing and ecosystem functioning. |
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Keywords: | Trichoptera Triplectides Hoffmannia dusenii Eucalyptus globulus shredder feeding preferences nutrient enrichment Brazil |
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