Are autumn foliage colors red signals to aphids?

PLoS Biol. 2007 Aug;5(8):e187. doi: 10.1371/journal.pbio.0050187.

Abstract

Why do plants change color in the autumn? Could it be a signal to aphids, warning them of the defensive strength of the trees, or might the cause be more mundane?

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Aphids* / anatomy & histology
  • Aphids* / physiology
  • Behavior, Animal / physiology
  • Biological Evolution
  • Color Perception / physiology
  • Color*
  • Life Cycle Stages
  • Pigments, Biological / metabolism*
  • Plant Leaves* / anatomy & histology
  • Plant Leaves* / metabolism
  • Seasons*
  • Trees / anatomy & histology*
  • Trees / physiology

Substances

  • Pigments, Biological