Environmental Entomology (2009) 38, 569-576

A. Franc and M.H. Luong-Skovmand (2009)
Life cycle, reproductive maturation, and wing color changes in Nomadacris septemfasciata (Orthoptera: Acrididae) in Madagascar
Environmental Entomology 38 (3), 569-576
Abstract: Red locusts, Nomadacris septemfasciata (Serville, 1838), frequently damage crops in Madagascar, and this problem has worsened in recent years, likely because of intensive deforestation. Little is known about this pest in Madagascar, contrary to southern Africa. We studied the reproductive maturation in relation to climate and vegetation in northwestern Madagascar. Our results show that adults overwinter, with females undergoing a 6- to 7-mo-long reproductive diapause, followed by a variable quiescent period of 2-4 wk, depending on ecological conditions, during which vitellogenesis is delayed,. Food availability in response to good rains at the end of spring seems to be the key factor for triggering the end of quiescence and the beginning of rapid vitellogenesis (= reproductive maturation). Hind wing color in adults changes throughout the year and was correlated with age and reproductive state in females and seasonal climate change.
(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): Alex Franc

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

---

Pest and/or beneficial records:

Beneficial	Pest/Disease/Weed	Crop/Product	Country	Quarant.
	Nomadacris septemfasciata		Madagascar