Forever chemicals influence on plant chemistry and herbivore performance

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also known as forever chemicals, are widespread and persistent pollutants in the environment and have been associated with adverse health effects in humans. These substances are known to accumulate in agricultural plants and animals; however, how PFAS accumulation in plants impacts interactions with herbivores remains unknown. In this study, we evaluate the effects of PFAS on volatile organic compound (VOC) profiles of Zea mays and how these changes affect the behavior and development of the herbivorous insect Spodoptera frugiperda. GC-MS analysis revealed that varying levels of PFAS exposure altered the VOC profiles of Z. mays. Further, S. frugiperda larvae feeding on PFAS-treated plants exhibited distinct performance changes. These results highlight the broader ecological consequences of forever chemical contamination in the environment.