Selective herbivory in insects : a test of some hypotheses

This study tested the hypothesis that C4 grasses are avoided as a food source by insect herbivores in natural communities. In addition, the study also tested whether annual grasses are a more suitable source of food for generalized herbivores than perennial grasses. Possible causes for any observed differences in herbivory were also sought in protein, calcium, and phosphorous levels of several grass species. These hypotheses were tested by determining insect herbivore distribution patterns on different plant species and then making comparisons. [...]