Energy Allocation in Brachypterous versus Macropterous Morphs of the Pygmy Grasshopper Tetrix subulata (Orthoptera: Tetrigidae)

Abstract

In wing dimorphic insects, there exists a trade-off between dispersal and reproduction. The brachypterous or short-winged morph reproduces faster while the macropterous or long-winged morph is better able to colonize new habitats. In the present study, energy reserves (carbohydrates, proteins and lipids) and energy consumption (derived from the electron transport activity) were quantified in brachypterous and macropterous males and females of the pygmy grasshopper Tetrix subulata (Linnaeus 1758). It was found that the macropterous morph consumes significantly more energy and has a significantly higher protein content in comparison with the brachypterous morph. Both parameters are probably related to better developed wing muscles in the macropterous morphs. No differences were found in carbohydrate and lipid content. It was also observed that energy consumption and protein content were significantly higher in males compared to females. These findings are probably related to the higher activity of males, which spend most of the time searching for females.