In this study, the feeding preferences of the leaf beetles Bromius obscurus Linnaeus, 1758 (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) were investigated in relation to two plant species of the Onagraceae family: the native Chamaenerion angustifolium (L.) Scop. and the invasive Epilobium adenocaulon Hausskn. During experiments with choice and subsequent assessment of plant damaged areas, it was established that B. obscurus prefers the native Ch. angustifolium. Experiments with traps showed the ability of leaf beetles to find their preferred plant by odour. These results are consistent with the Enemy Release Hypothesis, showing a greater vulnerability of native plants to phytophages. The olfactory analyzer plays an important role in recognizing the food plant.

E.N. Ustinova, S.N. Lysenkov