How do arthropods affect plant health?

Arthropods have a significant impact on plant health, primarily by causing physical, physiological, and behavioral damage. These organisms, which include insects, spiders, and crustaceans, can directly harm plants through feeding. For instance, many insects feed on plant leaves, stems, or roots, creating wounds that make plants more susceptible to disease and stress. This physical damage can lead to reduced photosynthesis and ultimately hinder a plant's growth and productivity.

Beyond direct feeding, arthropods can also cause physiological damage by transmitting pathogens, which can disrupt the plant's normal metabolic processes. Additionally, some arthropods secrete substances that induce abnormal growth patterns or stress responses in plants, affecting their overall health.

The assertion that they provide only benefits is misleading, as not all arthropods are beneficial to plants. While some do play positive roles, such as pollination or predation of harmful pests, the potential for damage is significant and widespread among different arthropod species. Also, claiming they do not affect plants ignores the vast array of interactions between arthropods and the plant ecosystem, where their presence can lead to a variety of outcomes, often detrimental.