christophermcgrue
Chemical Defenses at the Ready
This photo, taken outside of Building 6 of the UNCW Landing apartments exhibits a group of pink Azaleas (Rhododendron Pentanthera). A prominent factor that influences interspecific competition with Azaleas is the environmental condition in which they are grown. According to the Middle Atlantic Chapter of the American Rhododendron Society, Azalea seeds germinate best with temperatures between 70 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Azaleas are also prevalent defenders against predation. These plants contain grayanotoxins throughout their entire surfaces which provide a chemically constitutive defense. Ingestion of these plants can cause: a burning sensation on the tongue followed by excess saliva, vomiting, lethargy, and mild paralysis to name a few dangers. Through all of these hazards, multiple pests such as caterpillars, weevils, and whiteflies display herbivory and defoliate portions of Azaleas.
Chemical Defenses at the Ready
This photo, taken outside of Building 6 of the UNCW Landing apartments exhibits a group of pink Azaleas (Rhododendron Pentanthera). A prominent factor that influences interspecific competition with Azaleas is the environmental condition in which they are grown. According to the Middle Atlantic Chapter of the American Rhododendron Society, Azalea seeds germinate best with temperatures between 70 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Azaleas are also prevalent defenders against predation. These plants contain grayanotoxins throughout their entire surfaces which provide a chemically constitutive defense. Ingestion of these plants can cause: a burning sensation on the tongue followed by excess saliva, vomiting, lethargy, and mild paralysis to name a few dangers. Through all of these hazards, multiple pests such as caterpillars, weevils, and whiteflies display herbivory and defoliate portions of Azaleas.