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News · 14 June 2026

Tough leaves attract more insect damage

Tough leaves attract more insect damage

A new study just flipped the old idea that tough leaves stop insects, showing they actually get eaten more. Scientists in China looked at 61 tree species and found that strong leaves took heavier damage, surprising everyone. Real protection came from leaves with more silicon, while heat-tolerant plants surprisingly became a more tempting target.

Reported by Earth.com · How we write briefs

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