Some consequences of copulation in Rhodnius prolixus

Abstract

The increased egg production which accompanies mating is shown to be unaffected by allatectomy but is abolished by removal of neurosecretory cells. Part of the response to mating is due to an increased rate of oviposition, probably mediated by a myotropic factor released from neurosecretory cells. The retention of eggs results in a decrease in the size of the blood meal, which is partly responsible for the decrease in egg production among virgin females. However, a consideration of the feeding economy of females demonstrates that virgin females are much less efficient at converting their meal to eggs than are mated females.