Host plant resistance

Definition

The ability of a plant species or cultivar to deter or reduce damage from pests, often through genetically-based mechanisms that prevent or limit pest feeding, growth, or reproduction.

Etymology

Combines the concepts of 'host' (the organism providing food) and 'resistance' (inability to be overcome by a pest).

Example

Tomato cultivars with resistance genes against the Colorado potato beetle exhibit reduced feeding damage.

Related Terms

• Pest
• Insects
• Breeding
• Genetic Resistance