Mate recognition and reproductive isolation in the sibling species Spodoptera littoralis and Spodoptera litura

摘要: Mate recognition is crucial for reproductive isolation and maintaining species integrity. Chemosensory-mediated sexual communication with pheromones an essential component of mate in moths. Confronted sex pheromone stimuli released from conspecific closely related heterospecific females, which partially overlap chemical composition, male moths are under strong selection to recognize compatible mates. Here, we investigated the role signals premating sibling Spodoptera littoralis S. litura (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae). Further, measured consequence vs. matings. Both use Z9,E11-14:Ac as major compound, 11-component blend found glands comprises compounds litura. Accordingly, males readily responded calling females no-choice behavioural tests. In contrast, a dual-choice test, choose whereas did not discriminate between females. matings had negative fitness effect compared Female longevity, egg-laying hatching larvae were significantly reduced by males. Reciprocal crossings, males, prevented genital morphology, consistent attraction assay. On other hand, situation, show that interspecific occur zones geographical corroborate idea quality, these species, continuous categorical trait.