4 - Resource Allocation

Abstract

This chapter discusses the issue of resource allocation to different species. Species persist to the extent that the benefits of their behaviors outweigh the costs. Survival and reproduction are increased by the investment of energy, in particular, behavior and associated biochemicals. Foraging and reproductive behaviors should provide the best return for the time and effort spent searching. Reproductive behavior should maximize the survival of offspring. Among insects, the selection of appropriate oviposition sites determines egg development and survival. Acquired resources are allocated to various pathways. Acquired resources are either assimilated or egested. Assimilated resources are either allocated to production or expended through respiration. Consumption and allocation of resources are influenced by insect size, maturity, food quality, and parasitism. Competition and defense against predators often involve considerable expenditure of resources. In many species, males engage in various forms of combat to decide which males mate successfully. Both the marking of territorial boundaries and the defense of the territory against intruders characterize territorial behavior. The efficiency of foraging, reproductive, competitive, and defensive behavior may be increased by use of visual, chemical, or acoustic signals that communicate information to the recipients. Insects can improve foraging and mating efficiency by orienting toward chemical cues produced by suitable resources or potential mates. Environmental changes will affect the efficiency of resource acquisition and allocation strategies.