Variation in social and sexual behaviour in four species of aposematic seed bugs (Hemiptera: Lygaeidae): the role of toxic and non-toxic food.

摘要: Understanding variation in social behaviour both within and among species continues to be a challenge. Evolutionary or ecological theory typically predicts the optimal for an animal under given set of circumstances, yet real world presents much greater than predicted. This is apparent many sexual interactions, including mate choice, has led renewed focus on individual behaviour. Here we explore four aposematic seed bug (Lygaeidae: Hemiptera). These are Mullerian mimics, with characteristic warning colouration advertising their chemical toxicity. We examine role diet generating two key behaviours: aggregation nymphs choice. test how varies exposure either milkweed (a source defensive compounds) sunflower (that provides no defence). show that although vary food preferences, influences life-history (as highlighted by body size), choice relatively unaffected diet. discuss our findings terms evolution aposematism, importance automimicry, behavioural variation.