Plants in nature have inducible defences that sometimes lead to targeted resistance against particular herbivores, but susceptibility to others. The metabolic diversity and genetic resources available for maize ( Zea mays ) make this a suitable system for a mechanistic study of within‐species variation in such plant‐mediated interactions between herbivores. Beet armyworms ( Spodoptera exigua ) and corn leaf aphids ( Rhopalosip...

Chemical ecology is a mechanistic approach to understanding the causes and consequences of species interactions, distribution, abundance, and diversity. The promise of chemical ecology stems from its potential to provide causal mechanisms that further our understanding of ecological interactions and allow us to more effectively manipulate managed systems. Founded on the notion that all organisms use endogenous hormones and che...