Associating Insect Herbivory with Leaf Traits and Phenology in Quercus castanea

Tamara Citlali Ochoa Álvarez, Francisco Mora Ardila, Felipe García Oliva, and Antonio González Rodríguez

Published May 2026 in International Oaks No. 37: 141–148

Abstract

Herbivory is a highly relevant ecological interaction within natural systems, as it affects various structural and reproductive aspects of plants. Several factors can influence the development and intensity of this interaction, as herbivory can be affected both by plant characteristics and by abiotic factors such as temperature and precipitation. In this study, we analyzed the relationship among phenological, functional, chemical, and nutritional leaf attributes of Quercus castanea and the levels of herbivory along a water availability gradient over the course of two years. The level of herbivory was mainly determined by leaf phenology and by leaf area, since individuals with larger leaves experienced higher herbivory levels. In terms of abiotic factors, increased herbivory was observed with higher annual precipitation. In conclusion, herbivory in Q. castanea is influenced by climatic patterns of precipitation and leaf-trait variation.

Keywords

interactions, oak trees, environment, leaf characteristics

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