What Eats Shrubs?
All organisms need energy and certain basic nutrients to survive. Many organisms find these resources by eating other organisms. Shrubs serve as nutrition for many herbivores--which can sometimes be a problem for gardeners.
Types
Different types of shrubs come under attack from different herbivores. Deer graze on many shrubs like golden currant and chokecherry, for example, but are much less likely to graze on a yucca. Many shrubs have evolved adaptations that help to defend them from herbivores; Japanese privet, for example, is poisonous to horses.
Large Animals
Deer, elk, hares, rabbits, sheep and goats are all common herbivores that can graze on shrubs, depending on the species of shrub. In some ecosystems, shrubs may come under attack from other herbivores like antelope or rhinoceros. Birds also eat the seeds and berries of some shrubs as well.
Insect Herbivores
Shrubs can also fall victim to insect herbivores like aphids and caterpillars. A wide variety of different insects eat shrubs, and many of these insects are garden or agricultural pests.
References
- City of Boulder: Native Plant Gardens Gallery and Growing Tips
- Glacier National Park: What Eats Who?
- "Biology"; Neil A. Campbell, Jane B. Reece, Lisa A. Urry, Michael L. Cain, Peter V. Minorsky, Steven A. Wasserman, Robert B. Jackson; 2008
Writer Bio
Based in San Diego, John Brennan has been writing about science and the environment since 2006. His articles have appeared in "Plenty," "San Diego Reader," "Santa Barbara Independent" and "East Bay Monthly." Brennan holds a Bachelor of Science in biology from the University of California, San Diego.
Photo Credits
- Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
- Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
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