The extra-floral nectar mediates the interaction between plants and ants that defend against herbivorous insects (indirect defence). The chemical composition of nectar influences this interaction and can enhance the indirect defense performed by ants. In the extrafioral nectar of Prunus avium the presence of a speciic secondary metabolites has been determined which is very important in regulating various behavioural traits in ants. Experiments aimed at verifying the effects of this molecule on the behaviour of the ants Crematogaster scutellaris are currently underway.

For this research line he MAEC Lab collaborates with: Department of Chemical Sciences, Life and Environmental Sustainability (University of Parma); Department of Agri-Food and Environmental Sciences (University of Florence).