Patterns of Extrafloral Nectar Production in Chamaecrista fasciculata (Fabaceae: Caesalpinoideae).

Abstract

Chamaecrista fasciculata develops extrafloral nectaries at the base of most of its leaves that attract a variety of insects, including ants that aid in defense against herbivores. Here, we show that the extrafloral nectaries on newly developed leaves are larger and produce more nectar than those on older leaves. In addition, we demonstrate that nectar production does not increase with regular nectar removal, as might be experienced with routine visitation by patrolling ants, suggesting that the mass of nectar produced by individual nectaries is not plastic in response to removal. It's possible that plants prioritize producing nectar closer to their apical meristems to encourage ants to patrol and defend the full extent of their vegetative structures or to protect the tissues most vulnerable to herbivory.