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Heterospecific interaction in two beetle species: Males with weapons decrease the reproductive success of species
Rui Onishi1, Kentarou Matsumura1
1Graduate School of Environmental, Natural Science, and Technology Okayama University Okayama Japan.
Ecology and Evolution
|June 19, 2024
Summary
Male weapon traits, evolved for intraspecific combat, negatively impact reproductive success in other species. Broad-horned flour beetles with weapons interfered with red flour beetles, reducing their mating opportunities and offspring.
Area of Science:
- Evolutionary Biology
- Animal Behavior
- Insect Ecology
Background:
- Male-male combat drives sexual selection, favoring exaggerated weapon traits for mating and resource competition.
- Heterospecific interactions, often due to mistaken identity, can disrupt intraspecific mating and reduce reproductive success.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of male weapon traits on reproductive success during heterospecific interactions.
- To compare the effects of weaponized males (Gnatocerus cornutus) versus non-weaponized males (Tribolium castaneum) in mixed-species encounters.
Main Methods:
- Comparative study using two closely related beetle species: Gnatocerus cornutus (males with weapons) and Tribolium castaneum (males without weapons).
- Assessed interference in resource acquisition and reproductive opportunities in cohabiting and non-cohabiting scenarios.
Main Results:
- Gnatocerus cornutus males actively interfered with Tribolium castaneum by attacking them, disrupting resource acquisition.
- Reproductive success of Tribolium castaneum significantly decreased when cohabiting with Gnatocerus cornutus males.
Conclusions:
- Male weapon traits, crucial for intraspecific sexual selection, can negatively influence heterospecific interactions and reproductive outcomes.
- Weaponized males can dominate resources and reduce the reproductive success of competing, non-weaponized heterospecifics.
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