Chemical Camouflage in Plants: Defensive Science of Stealth against Insect Herbivory

Abstract

Chemical camouflage is a fascinating and intricate survival strategy that plants have evolved to defend themselves against herbivores and pests. While plant defense mechanisms have long captivated scientific interest, their full potential remains largely untapped in practical applications. This review takes a distinctive interdisciplinary approach, weaving together insights from molecular biology, ecology, and agricultural science to offer a comprehensive perspective on chemical camouflage. It was driven by a shared understanding that integrating plant defense strategies more deeply into agricultural systems could help address urgent challenges such as pest control, crop productivity, and environmental sustainability. With continued research and advances in biotechnology, chemical camouflage could become a key component of future farming─where crops not only protect themselves but also contribute actively to a more productive and sustainable agricultural landscape.