Factors Affecting Egg Deposition of the European Mantis

Joanna Kajzer-Bonk

doi:10.3409/fb_68-2.06

Abstract

In this paper, we studied the egg-case (oothecae) deposition of the European mantis, Mantis religiosa (Linnaeus 1758), a predatory insect. We hypothesized that the height of ootheca deposition on a plant reflects the insolation requirements of the species, and would increase when plant cover is denser. We found that the taller the plants nearby, the greater the height of egg deposition. Oothecae were also oviposited higher in denser vegetation. The observed behavior may ensure the proper insolation of developing offspring. To our knowledge, this is the first description of an egg laying strategy of this species under natural conditions. This finding allows for a better understanding of habitat selection and the overall ecology of the European mantis. It may be also useful in identifying the mechanisms of the range extension of this species and is a potential tool to effectively conserve xerothermic ootheca-laying animals. Further studies are required to assess the flexibility of this behavior under different environmental conditions.

Highlights

Parental care, defined as any parental trait enhancing offspring fitness (SMISETH et al 2012), is described for some arthropods (Blattodea, Coleoptera, Dermaptera, Embioptera, Hemiptera, Hymenoptera, Orthoptera) (WONG et al 2013), but remains understudied in this group (TRUMBO 2012)
Another important factor affecting offspring fitness is the building of nests, burrows (TRUMBO 2012), or clustering the eggs in complex cases called oothecae, which protect the eggs against desiccation, parasitoids, and predators
The non-random distribution of mantid oviposition sites may be driven by preferred plant stems and attraction to the pheromones released by other females, as in Tenodera sinensis (HURD 1999)

Summary

Introduction

Parental care, defined as any parental trait enhancing offspring fitness (SMISETH et al 2012), is described for some arthropods (Blattodea, Coleoptera, Dermaptera, Embioptera, Hemiptera, Hymenoptera, Orthoptera) (WONG et al 2013), but remains understudied in this group (TRUMBO 2012). The non-random distribution of mantid oviposition sites may be driven by preferred plant stems (goldenrod, asters) and attraction to the pheromones released by other females, as in Tenodera sinensis (HURD 1999). Whether females of this species make any choices throughout ootheca laying, e.g. if a particular plant species or oviposition height is selected.

Results

Conclusion