Abstract
ABSTRACT. Genetically identical vetch aphids, Megoura viciae (Buckton), showed a weak but significant positive relationship between reproductive investment (number of ovarioles) and weight, here used as an indicator of habitat quality. Apterae reared on poor quality plants showed the same range in numbers (twelve to twenty‐two) but on average fewer ovarioles than those reared on high quality plants. The variability in ovariole number was determined prior to birth. Under constant conditions the age of a mother does not affect the range of ovariole numbers or the proportion of her offspring in each ovariole class. Apterae reared on poor quality host plants gave birth to proportionately fewer offspring with a high ovariole number than apterae reared on high quality plants. Winged individuals gave birth to proportionately more offspring with a high number of ovarioles than apterae. The control and ecological significance of the intramorph variation in reproductive tactics shown by many species of aphids is discussed in the light of these results.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
