Comparaison des Fécondités et des Pontes d'Acanthoscelides Obtectus say (Col., Bruchidae) en Présence de Graines et de Gousses de Phaseolus Vulgaris L.

Abstract

SummaryThe fecundity of fertilised females of Acanthoscelides obtectus is higher in presence of Phaseolus vulgaris pods than in presence of bean seeds. Results are more homogeneous when females are in presence of pods. However, some eggs are laid outside the pods. On average, pods offer a more reliable group of signals than do bean seeds to ensure a sustained activity in egg laying behaviour. Variation in responses shows that there is a remarkable polymorphism within this species with respect to its requirements for egg laying conditions.