Priming of indirect defence responses in maize is shown to be genotype-specific

Priming is an induced defence mechanism in which plants that have been exposed to elicitors, such as herbivore-induced plant volatiles (HIPVs), go into alert state with faster and stronger responses against a future biotic challenge. This study evaluated whether HIPVs emitted by maize genotypes after herbivory fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) larvae could prime neighbouring for enhanced indirect response, if priming was consistent across different genotypes. Two were selected based on their differences HIPV emission: Sintético Spodoptera (SS), relatively high emitter of HIPVs, L3, low HIPVs. SS previously initiated earlier volatile production upon larval challenge, compared undamaged volatiles. In addition, then challenge attracted egg parasitoid, Telenomus remus, at stage than only subjected indicating effect. There no evidence response L3 or When comparing the gene expression HIPV-exposed (UDV)-exposed plants, jasmonate-induced protein GRMZM2G05154 UDP-glucosyltransferase bx8 genes related biosynthesis DIBOA-Glu upregulated. These data indicate enhances reported other studies, provide new information showing effect can be genotype-specific.