Induced responses in the subtropical evergreen, broad-leaf tree Schima superba: Effects of simulated herbivory on leaf quality and subsequent insect attack during leaf expansion

induced responses to herbivory are physical, nutritional, and allelochemical traits that change in plants following disturbances, and reduce the performance and/or preference of leaf tissues on herbivores. this study gave evidence to the induced defense theory through the simulated herbivory in schima superba, one of common dominant trees in subtropical evergreen, broadleaf forests in southern china. results showed that leaves damaged at the beginning of leaf expansion would develop into having a larger area, higher toughness and higher tannin concentrations, but a lower water content compared with control leaves. as a result, they experienced lower herbivory rates than controls. these results indicate that simulated herbivory on leaves of s. superba (1) reduced leaf nutrition, and (2) increased the leaf physical and biochemical defense as a result of a localized induction to herbivory, therefore altering insect herbivore attacks.