Shifts in leaf color during ontogeny do not affect herbivory in the tropical tree <i>Lecythis pisonis</i> (Lecythidaceae)

Abstract Herbivory significantly influences plant–insect interactions. This study examined the relationship between leaf color and insect herbivory in cannonball trees ( Lecythis pisonis ), focusing on temporal patterns in herbivory and leaf defense as leaf color changes across seasons. We found that young pink leaves had smaller leaf areas and greater specific leaf area (SLA) compared to green leaves. Despite these differences, there was no significant effect of leaf color on herbivory levels during the month of bud burst. This suggests that pink, tender leaves may deter herbivores despite expectations of increased damage. Throughout the rainy season, green leaves experienced an average of 4.5% leaf area removed and a 9.3% frequency of leaves attacked, with no significant differences observed between color types. While several potential mechanisms may protect pink leaves, further research is needed to clarify the relationship between leaf pigments and defenses against herbivory in cannonball trees.