Abstract
Solenopsis geminata (F.) and Solenopsis xyloni McCook, fire ants native to North America, are attacked by at least three species of parasitic phorid flies. Oviposition behavior of one of these parasites, Pseudacteon crawfordi Coquillett, is described. This species inserts its oviscape in a thoracic suture of workers and apparently deposits eggs therein. P. crawfordi does not oviposit on all available workers, but tends to attack larger workers. Several reasons are suggested for size-selective oviposition in parasitic phorid flies, and the implications for host ant species are discussed.
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.
