The leaf nitrogen content is generally accepted as an indicator of food quality and as a factor affecting host selection by phytophagous insects. The alate pea aphids (Acyrthosiphon pisum Harris, Aphididae) were given a choice among non-nodulated pea plants (Pisum sativum L.) supplied with one of four nitrate-N levels (0, 3, 15 and 30 mM). When whole plants were exposed to aphids for 7 days, th...

The anatomical and morphological leaf traits as well as leaf inclination and orientation per different leaf age cohort of Quercus ilex, Phillyrea latifolia and Cistus incanus growing in the Mediterranean maquis along Rome’s coast-line (Italy) were investigated. Specific leaf weight (SLW), total leaf thickness (L), leaf density index and leaf inclination (a) changed according to leaf age. The ma...

The multi-scale microstructure of a lotus leaf is rendered non-wetting by micro-protrusions and nano-hairs present on its surface. The mechanical properties of the surface become important since the water droplet has to be supported on the micro-protrusions without wetting the surface. Current work correlates the non-wetting behavior of the lotus leaf with its mechanical properties (Young's mod...

Leaf shrinkage provides insights into the potential variation of foliar SVR, within the same species, when leaf moisture content is changing in response to water deficit. Since SVR is among the most significant plant flammability features, leaf shrinkage would be a relevant component of fuel hazard assessment through its influence on SVR, enhancing-if it is taken into account-thereby the wildfi...

The aim of this study was to investigate the use and decomposition of reed leaves (Phragmites australis) by aquatic macroinvertebrates in a lake environment (Lake Balaton, Hungary). Natural and artificial leaves were exposed to separate the use of leaves as substrate and as food at different vertical positions. Although we recorded a low density of macroinvertebrates, mixed-effect models showed...

Mulberry (Morus species) leaf is the sole food for monophagous silkworms, Bombyx mori L. Abiotic stresses such as drought, salinity, and high temperature, significantly decrease mulberry productivity and post-harvest water loss from leaves influence silkworm growth and cocoon yield. Leaf surface properties regulate direct water loss through the cuticular layer. Leaf surface waxes, contribute fo...