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The trans-generational phase accumulation in the desert locust: morphometric changes and extra molting
1Locust Research Laboratory, National Institute of Agrobiological Sciences at Ohwashi (NIASO), Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan.
Journal of Insect Physiology
|July 28, 2009
Summary
Desert locusts (Schistocerca gregaria) show trans-generational phase changes in morphometrics like the F/C ratio. These shifts between solitary and gregarious phases require two generations and are linked to environmental conditions.
Area of Science:
- Entomology
- Behavioral Ecology
- Genetics
Background:
- The desert locust (Schistocerca gregaria) exhibits phase polyphenism, transitioning between solitary and gregarious forms.
- Morphometric characteristics, such as the F/C ratio (hind femur length to maximum head width), differ between these phases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the trans-generational accumulation of phase-related traits in desert locusts.
- To determine the time course and environmental triggers for phase shifts in morphometrics and coloration.
Main Methods:
- Monitoring the F/C ratio and body color of adult desert locusts over eight generations.
- Manipulating rearing conditions (crowded vs. isolated) across generations to induce phase changes.
Main Results:
- Adult F/C ratios were larger in solitarious locusts and negatively correlated with hatchling body color darkness.
- Two generations were necessary for a complete phase shift (gregarious to solitary and vice versa).
- Environmental conditions experienced by both adult females and their nymphal offspring influenced the phase traits.
Conclusions:
- Trans-generational morphometric changes in desert locusts can be explained by environmental influences over two generations without invoking accumulating internal factors.
- Extra molting in solitarious locusts affects adult F/C ratio but not significantly trans-generational changes.
- Nymphal survival rates were negatively correlated with the incidence of extra molting.
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