Courtship Behavior of Heliothis subflexa (Gn.) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) and Associated Backcross Insects Obtained from Hybridization with H. virescens (F.)

Abstract

This study describes the courtship behavior sequence under wind tunnel conditions of Heliothis subflexa (Guenee) and selected backcross insects (generations 5 and 6) obtained from hybridization with Heliothis virescens (F.). The rhythmic release of pheromone by H. subflexa, H. virescens and backcross females was correlated with the response rhythm of males. The behavioral courtship sequence of H. subflexa males ( P < 0.05) included oriented flight, landing, antennation, attempted copulation, and mating behaviors. Backcross insects did not antennate, but they fully displayed their hairpencils as did males of H. virescens . Factors that increased the probability of successful matings were identified as an acquiescent female, antennating by H. subflexa males, full hairpencil display (backcross males) and the male's ability to clasp the female genitalia. Overall, 63% of H. subflexa and 33% of backcross pairs culminated the courtship sequence with successful mating. The tendency of backcross males to settle down after limited flight activity contributed greatly to the increased proportion of unsuccessful males.