Environmental Entomology (2001) 30, 686-691

Hong-Zhang Zhou (2001)
Reproduction of Lagria hirta (Coleoptera: Lagriidae) and its life-history trait correlation
Environmental Entomology 30 (4), 686-691
Abstract: Life-history traits correlated to reproduction are important in deciding adaptability of insects. Lagria hirta L. has a short phytophagous adult phase in summer and a very long saprophagous larval phase extending from autumn until spring. This study revealed that its reproduction was modified by external factors and by complex interactions involving different life-history traits. Oviposition occurred only at 15–25°C, LD (L16: D8) or SD (L8: D16). Within this temperature range, preoviposition time, fecundity and adult life span were affected (P <0.05). Photoperiod was found significantly to affect fecundity, viability of eggs and preoviposition time (P <0.04). Unmated females can lay eggs, but the eggs are sterile. The survival of eggs is also influenced by photoperiod (P < 0.001). In this study, the subtle variations were examined in the last instar's duration, pupal weight, fecundity and adult life span. In terms of reproduction, two correlations were apparent: larval short last instar durations result in heavier pupae and eclose to longer-lived adults; conversely, larvae with longer last instars produce lighter pupae which, if female, tend to lay fewer eggs. These correlations were statistically significant (P <0.05). These trends represent a trade-off in resource allocation: long final instar duration may consume more energy that would be invested in reproduction. This is heterogeneous (phenotypically or genotypically) among the individuals of L. hirta.
(The abstract is excluded from the Creative Commons licence and has been copied with permission by the publisher.)
Link to article at publishers website
Database assignments for author(s): Hong Zhang Zhou

Research topic(s) for pests/diseases/weeds:
general biology - morphology - evolution
environment - cropping system/rotation

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Pest and/or beneficial records:

Beneficial	Pest/Disease/Weed	Crop/Product	Country	Quarant.
	Lagria hirta