The effects of plant domestication on the foraging and performance of parasitoids.

Domestication-related changes in the chemical traits of crop plants affect parasitoid foraging success, development, and survival. For example, herbivore-induced changes in the production of volatiles by domesticated plants can enhance or reduce parasitoid attraction. While the trade-off between nutrient content and chemical defense in cultivated plants can increase the suitability of hosts for parasitoids, their increased health and size can positively affect their immune response against parasitoids. Overall, plant domestication is expected to significantly affect their relationship with parasitoids due to altered plant morphology, physical characteristics, chemical defenses, and new plant associations. This review highlights the need for research on the effects of plant domestication on host-parasitoid interactions in the interest of better controlling insect pests.