Reproduction of Limnatis paluda (Tennent 1859) in laboratory conditions

The reproductive functions of Limnatis paluda were studied in laboratory conditions including imposing of two thermal conditions (T₁: 18 ± 2 °C and T₂: 26 ± 2 °C) and with there being placement of three bedding substrates (tile, moss, and stone) in the containers specimens were confined. Furthermore, values for reproductive variables of cocoons and hatchlings were recorded. With the T₂ treatment, gravid adults had cocoon depositions, whereas those when there was imposing of the T₁ treatment did not have cocoon depositions. There was cocoon deposition only on the moss bedding, and it is presumed that moss could provide a robust and stable nursing microenvironment for developing embryos. Frequency (%) of cocoon depositions did not vary during the months of the deposition period. Hatching occurred after 26 ± 2 days when there was imposing of the T₂ treatment. There was no correlation between the values for size of the ovigerous cocoons and number of offspring. There was a negative correlation between number and mean weight of hatchlings. There was a difference in cocoon weight for the different months and fluctuation in mortality and hatching rate which is assumed to be related to differences in feeding behaviors.