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Genetic and environmental effects on wing polymorphisms in two tropical earwigs (Dermaptera: Labiidae)
1Escuela de Biología, Universidad de Costa Rica, Cuidad Universitaria, Costa Rica.
Oecologia
|March 18, 2017
Summary
Wing polymorphism in tropical earwigs is influenced by parental wings, sex, and nymphal nutrition. Wingless females of Paralabella dorsalis exhibited longer lifespans and improved reproductive output.
Area of Science:
- Entomology
- Evolutionary Biology
- Animal Behavior
Background:
- Tropical earwigs Paralabella dorsalis and Pseudomarava prominensis exhibit wing polymorphism.
- Wing presence is a significant trait influencing insect life history and dispersal.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the factors influencing wing polymorphism in P. dorsalis and P. prominensis.
- To determine the life history consequences of winglessness in P. dorsalis.
Main Methods:
- Observational studies on natural populations.
- Controlled experiments on nymphal nutrition.
- Comparative analysis of reproductive traits between winged and wingless morphs.
Main Results:
- Wing presence in both sexes is heritable and influenced by parental wing status.
- Nymphal nutrition significantly impacts wing development in P. dorsalis.
- Wingless females of P. dorsalis demonstrated extended longevity, earlier oviposition, and larger clutch sizes.
Conclusions:
- Wing polymorphism in these earwig species is a complex trait influenced by genetic and environmental factors.
- Winglessness in P. dorsalis females confers significant survival and reproductive advantages.
- Understanding wing polymorphism is crucial for predicting insect population dynamics and adaptation.
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