Cornell University
Library
Cornell UniversityLibrary

eCommons

Help
Log In(current)
  1. Home
  2. Undergraduate Honors Theses
  3. College of Arts and Sciences Honors Theses
  4. Biological Sciences Honors Theses
  5. The Putrescine Puzzle: How do Manduca sexta hawkmoths respond to scented nectar in Datura wrightii flowers?

The Putrescine Puzzle: How do Manduca sexta hawkmoths respond to scented nectar in Datura wrightii flowers?

File(s)
ChengSheri_2022_Thesis.pdf (627.65 KB)
Permanent Link(s)
https://hdl.handle.net/1813/111444
Collections
Biological Sciences Honors Theses
Author
Cheng, Sheri
Abstract

The unusual large amounts of a polyamine, putrescine, in the nectar of the Datura wrightii flower add complexity to the mutualistic interactions between the flower and its pollinator, Manduca sexta, acting as a potential modulator in the pollinator’s foraging behavior. However, whether this non-sugar metabolite acts as an attractant or a repellent in the floral nectar is not well understood. I performed an innate preference bioassay using the Datura nectar and a synthetic sugar solution to analyze the possible effects of putrescine on Manduca preference during foraging. Based on the assessment of the animal’s first choice, the frequency of visits per flower, and the final volume of nectar consumption measurements, this study failed to find any statistically significant difference in the moth’s preference between Datura nectar and the synthetic sugar solution. However, while the absence of behavioral changes may suggest the animal’s indifference towards the additional polyamines in the nectar, it remains possible that physiological or fecundity implications may arise from a long-term study.

Date Issued
2022-05
Keywords
Biological sciences honors program
•
Manduca sexta hawkmoths
•
Datura Wrightii flowers
Degree Discipline
Biological Sciences
Degree Name
B.A., Biological Sciences
Degree Level
Bachelor of Arts
Type
dissertation or thesis

Site Statistics | Help

About eCommons | Policies | Terms of use | Contact Us

copyright © 2002-2026 Cornell University Library | Privacy | Web Accessibility Assistance