Publication Date
2024
Document Type
Thesis
Committee Members
Don Cipollini, Ph.D. (Advisor); John Stireman III, Ph.D. (Committee Member); Volker Bahn, Ph.D. (Committee Member)
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Abstract
Emerald ash borer (EAB), Agrilus planipennis, is an invasive pest that significantly impacts olive trees (Olea europaea). This study aimed to assess the role of abiotic stress factors such as drought and salinity in influencing plant defenses and resistance to EAB, while also examining cultivar variation in resistance. The study specifically aimed to address: (1) What effects do varying degrees of abiotic stress (drought, salinity) have on olive trees' antioxidant and peroxidase activity in olive tree? (2) Do distinct olive cultivars exhibit varying levels of resistance to EAB under various stressors? We used a controlled experimental design with two stress treatments (drought and salinity) and 20 olive cultivars to conduct the bioassay. Growth metrics (height and stem diameter), peroxidase activity, and antioxidant activity were measured, while EAB survival and performance were assessed by monitoring larval feeding and growth. Results indicated no significant differences in antioxidant activity between treatments, although low salinity slightly enhanced antioxidant responses. Peroxidase activity was highest under high salinity, and growth responses varied by treatment and cultivar, with Leccino showing the highest antioxidant activity. EAB larvae performed best under drought conditions but exhibited poor survival on certain cultivars. These findings suggest that abiotic stress influences both plant defense mechanisms and pest resistance, with cultivar-specific responses to stress and pest pressure.
Page Count
69
Department or Program
Department of Biological Sciences
Year Degree Awarded
2024
Copyright
Copyright 2024, all rights reserved. My ETD will be available under the "Fair Use" terms of copyright law.
ORCID ID
0009-0009-7630-854X
