Insect diapause of very variable duration: the case of the palm nut bruchid Pachymerus nucleorum (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) |
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Authors: | Forbes P. Benton |
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Affiliation: | 1. Apartamento 202 Edificio Jardim das Acácias, Rua Almirante Carlos Paraguassú de Sá 385, Salvador – Bahia (BA), CEP 41810-660, Brazilforbesb@ig.com.br |
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Abstract: | Data are provided here showing that larval diapause in the tropical palm nut bruchid Pachymerus nucleorum (Fabricius) can extend up to a maximum of about five years, although for most individuals the duration ranges from 15 to 48 months. The data were obtained for insects originating from one source only that were held under one set of temperature and photoperiod conditions only so the wide variation in duration is attributed to maternal control. Staggering the adult emergence times of a parent’s progeny can be regarded as an evolutionary strategy that increases the chance that some at least encounter favourable biotic or abiotic conditions. It is believed that extended diapause may be quite widespread amongst insects, including those of temperate climates. |
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Keywords: | artificial infestation maternal control Syagrus coronata |
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