Significance statement
Nitrogen limitation theory predicts that terrestrial plants should
benefit from nitrogen inputs and subsequently that herbivores should
benefit from higher plant protein contents. While this pattern has
generally been supported, some herbivorous insects have shown preference
and higher performance on low protein (p), high carbohydrate (c) diets
as juveniles. However, little is known about the effects on reproduction
in adults. Using nitrogen fertilizer, we demonstrate that high plant p:c
has negative effects on Senegalese locust (Orthoptera: Oedaeleus
senegalensis ) reproduction and survival in an agroecological setting
(millet field, Pennisetum glaucum ). We hypothesize that this
pattern will apply broadly to species that have extensive carbohydrate
needs, such as long-distance migrators.
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