Courtship and mating behavior in four Pachytroctidae species (Psocodea: ‘Psocoptera’: Troctomorpha: Nanopsocetae: Pachytroctidae)

Diane W Young,Edward L Mockford

doi:10.32870/dugesiana.v27i2.7104

Abstract

Courtship and mating behavior were investigated in four species, representing three different genera, in the family Pachytroctidae. All exhibited a lengthy courtship in the male-above position followed by brief copulation in the female-above position with both facing in the same direction. This courtship behavior has not previously been observed in ‘Psocoptera’ and may be unique to Pachytroctidae. In three of the species in this study, the spermatophore remnant protruded from the tip of the male’s abdomen after copulation, and was immediately deposited on the surface of the experimental enclosure. Differences in courtship behavior of the two closely related and sympatric Tapinella species, described in this report, may represent reproductive isolating mechanisms. Under experimental conditions, we observed a male of each Tapinella species mount, court, and attempt to mate with a virgin female of the other species. In each case the female rejected the male and failed to mate. Implications relative to these behaviors are discussed. DOI links to videos are provided for easy access.

Highlights

RESUMEN Se investigó el cortejo y el comportamiento de apareamiento en cuatro especies de la familia Pachytroctidae
All exhibited a lengthy courtship in the male-above position followed by brief copulation in the female-above position with both facing in the same direction
Courtship and mating behavior observed in the four species in question can best be discussed as the following sequential phases: 1) “attraction”—begins with the introduction of the male into the petri dish and continues as the male locates and approaches the female; 2) “initial courtship”—begins when the male mounts the female and continues until an abrupt change in the male’s behavior; 3) “courtship climax”—occurs as the male exhibits a dramatic increase in activity seconds before dismounting and backing under the female and 4) “copulation”—begins as the male and female genitalia make contact and ends as their genitalia separate

Summary

Introduction

The four pachytroctid species involved in this study have been recorded in central and south Texas. Broadhead noted that the male and female genitalia in this genus are remarkably similar and could not provide a mechanical barrier to inter-specific mating. He noted that mating behavior is very similar in these eight species but reproductive isolation is complete. Males were occasionally observed mounted on a female’s back for extended periods of time We confirmed this same behavior in all four pachytroctid species found in central Texas and determined that the behavior observed was courtship and not post-copulatory mate guarding

Methods

Results

Conclusion