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Factors determining harem ownership in a subsocial spider mite (Acari, Tetranychidae)

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Abstract

Several factors which may affect harem ownership by males ofSchizotetranychus miscanthi Saitō (a new subsocial species of theSchizotetranychus celarius complex) were experimentally tested. A marking method was developed and used for studying spider mite behavior. Nest ownership (longer male residence in a nest) had little influence on the consequence of male-male combat. Furthermore, age differences in males never affected the outcome of the combats. Length of male leg I, however, appeared to be an important factor. Factors affecting variation in male leg size were examined. Length of leg I was strongly affected by host plant quality but not by male age.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Laboratory of Applied Zoology, Faculty of Agriculture, Hokkaido University, Kita-ku, 060, Sapporo, Japan

    Yutaka Saitō

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  1. Yutaka Saitō
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Saitō, Y. Factors determining harem ownership in a subsocial spider mite (Acari, Tetranychidae). J. Ethol. 8, 37–43 (1990). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02350272

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02350272

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