Some aspects of the reproductive behaviour of the tossa jute defoliator, Acraea terpsicore (L.), were studied. The insect mated only once. A horny material was deposited on the female's genital aperture after mating. Mating began on the day of emergence and lasted for 7 days on 10% sucrose solution. Maximum number of matings was on the third day after emergence. Within the day, over 95% of matings was between 0600 and 1800 hr with a peak between 1200 and 1800 hr. Eggs were also laid mainly between 0600 and 1800 hr during the day with a peak between 1500 and 1800 hr. Oviposition which started on the day of emergence lasted for 7 days on 10% sucrose with a peak on the second day. The presence of the male, after mating had occurred, did not significantly affect the number of eggs laid. Adults emerged between 0600 and 1800 hr but mostly before mid-day. Peak emergence for males occurred earlier than that for females. Behavioural activities in courtship, mating, oviposition, and adult emergence, are described.
