Hormonal Control of Courtship Behavior and Reproductive Cycle in the Cockroach Species Blaptica dubia (Blattoidea: Blaberoidea: Blaberidae)

Abstract

Blaptica dubia (Serville 1839) was reared at 26°C ± 2° with a 12 :12 L/D photoperiod. Under these conditions mating was first detected 5± 2 days after imaginal ecdysis. The pregnancy of this ovoviviparous cockroach lasts 48 - 64 days. Neuroendocrine and other humoral factors (juvenile hormone [JH]) stimulate oocyte growth, the activity of colleterial glands, and receptivity of FF. The ovulation of the 1rst gonotropic cycle occurs on d-17 (±3) after adult ecdysis. This period is correlated with high activity of corpora allata [CA] and corpora cardiaca [CC]. Thereafter and throughout most of pregnancy, the CA are generally inactive, rising in size again shortly before oviposition in association with the second gonotropic cycle. Allatectomy as well as cauterization of the median neurosecretory cells [m.ns.c]or decapitation prevent receptivity of the FF, mating behavior and oocyte maturation. Implantation of the retrocerebral complex and/or JH injections cancel the inhibition. The inhibitory influence of the extirpations depends on their timing during the reproductive cycle.