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COURTSHIP BEHAVIOR OF THE MIGRATORY GRASSHOPPER, MELANOPLUS SANGUINIPES (ORTHOPTERA: ACRIDIDAE)1

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  31 May 2012

R. Pickford  and
C. Gillott
R. Pickford
Affiliation:
Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
C. Gillott
Affiliation:
Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
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Abstract

Studies on the courtship behavior of Melanoplus sanguinipes (Fabr.) clearly indicated that the male played the dominant role. The conspicuous waving of antennae and vibrating of hind femora, which form an integral part of the male’s behavioral pattern, did not appear essential for normal coupling. Visual stimuli proved to be of primary importance for ’homing in’ on the female prior to the mounting leap. Blinding the male caused all courtship activities to cease. Males clearly were able to select mature females from immature ones and virgin from mated females. Although further experimental evidence is required for corroboration, it is suggested that this selectivity may have been accomplished by some form of chemical stimulus emitted by the females.

Type
Articles
Information
The Canadian Entomologist , Volume 104 , Issue 5 , May 1972 , pp. 715 - 722
Copyright
Copyright © Entomological Society of Canada 1972

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