Influence of juvenile hormone on territorial and aggressive behavior in the Painted Lady (Vanessa cardui) and Eastern Black Swallowtail (Papilio polyxenes)

摘要: Competition is important in environments with limited resources. Males of many insect species are territorial and will defend resources, such as a food source or egg-laying site, against intruders, even compete to attract mate. In insects, evidence suggests that juvenile hormone acts an aggression mediator, much like testosterone other animal species. this study I tested idea using group male Painted Lady butterflies, Vanessa cardui, Eastern Black Swallowtail Papilio polyxenes, were treated prior metamorphosis either high low dose methoprene acid (a mimic). Male-male encounters staged untreated adults males observe effects augmentation on territoriality. Hemolymph was sampled from larvae analyzed for JH content gas chromatography. each encounter female positioned witness the encounter; after winner determined, she released allowed choose male. Male V. cardui significantly more likely win over control male, given dose. This result influences aggressive potential butterflies. High mortality among adult P. polyxenes experimental data collection Finally, females not interested any dosage showed no preference. choosing based level perhaps captivity.