Wing-beat pattern in Rhodnius prolixus Stål (Heteroptera: Reduviidae) during exhaustive flight

Abstract

Stationary, tethered Rhodnius prolixus males were stimulated to beat their wings for periods averaging 2–3 h. Wing-beat frequency averaged 70 Hz and was quite variable. Wing-beat amplitude declined as the insects approached exhaustion, but no consistent change was observed in beat frequency. Male R. prolixus assumes a characteristic flight posture and exhibits the typical reflexes and anatomical adaptations observed in other flying insects. The long periods of wing beating under laboratory conditions suggest they may be capable of flights of considerable duration in the wild.