Gene and protein expression patterns differed between the genotypes, with herbivory often increasing expression, but differing between fertilization levels. The effects between fertilization and induced defenses were complex, with low fertilization reducing induced defenses in the resistant maize. Induction of plant defenses by prior herbivory substantially reduced naïve fall armyworm growth in both genotypes. For each genotype, fertilization altered larval performance, where lower fertilization rates hindered larval growth. Insect performance differed between the two plant genotypes substantially. Plant tissue was collected and used in insect bioassays and to measure the expression of defense-related genes and proteins.

Upon reaching V4 stage, maize plants were separated into two groups, one of which was infested with fall armyworm larvae to induce plant defenses. Plants were subjected to three fertilization regimes prior to assessing insect-mediated responses. We used two maize ( Zea mays) genotypes possessing different levels of resistance and the fall armyworm ( Spodoptera frugiperda) as model systems. In this study, we aimed to test the hypothesis that access to nutrition would alter the expression of plant resistance to insects and alter insect performance in a manner consistent with fertilization regime. Within this framework, plant access to nutrients may be critical for maximal functioning of resistance mechanisms and are likely to differ among plant genotypes. Resistance to insects often varies among plant species, with different genotypes exhibiting unique patterns of chemical and physical defenses. However, they are capable of mounting defenses against would-be attackers which may be heightened upon attack. Plants are often confronted by different groups of herbivores, which threaten their growth and reproduction. 2Department of Plant Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, United States.

1Department of Entomology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, United States.Mason 1*†, Swayamjit Ray 1†, Elizabeth Davidson-Lowe 1†, Jared Ali 1, Dawn S.

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