Abstract
Mating behavior of the leaffooted bug Leptoglossus clypealis Heidemann was studied in the laboratory (27 ± 1°C, 60 ± 10% RH, photoperiod 16:8 [L:D] h). The mean premating period was 16.42 ± 0.42 d (mean ± SE). Males initiated courtship displays to females 8.13 ± 0.12 d after emergence. Paired adults mated 17.63 ± 2.02 times during their lifespan. The mean copulation duration was 3.85 ± 0.49 h. Copulations occurred throughout the day, but the majority (55%) took place during the 8 h scotophase. Mating behavior began with a male attracting a female from a distance, followed by the male approaching and courting the female at close range. Observations of mating behavior and bioassays indicated that the male produces a pheromone blend with both sex attractant and aphrodisiac functions. The male abdominal stretching behavior (stretching the ninth and part of the eighth abdominal segments frequently, and stroking them with the hind legs) during calling and courtship may aid in release and dispersal of male sex pheromone from the sex-specific ventral abdominal gland.
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.
