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COUPLING BEHAVIOUR OF THE MIGRATORY GRASSHOPPER, MELANOPLUS SANGUINIPES (ORTHOPTERA: ACRIDIDAE)1

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  31 May 2012

R. Pickford
Affiliation:
Research Station, Canada Department of Agriculture, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
C. Gillott
Affiliation:
Department of Biology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan

Abstract

The mechanics of coupling in Melanoplus sanguinipes (Fabr.) are described and differences between some species of Acrididae discussed. A high level of coupling activity was revealed with the most active male and female mating 56 and 46 times, respectively. In addition, multiple daily matings, to a maximum of five, were common. The majority of copulations occurred during the morning in both laboratory and field; however, in the latter, unfavourable weather restricted sexual activity. Coupling did not appear to occur at random; significant preferences were shown by certain males for certain females.

Type
Articles
Copyright
Copyright © Entomological Society of Canada 1972

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