Preference and performance linkage of a leaf-mining moth on different Salicaceae species

Abstract

The relationship between oviposition prefer-ence and offspring performance of a leaf-mining moth (Paraleucoptera sinuella) on four Salicaceae species was investigated in 1997 and 1998. We observed the egg distribution pattern on different plant species in the field and carried out oviposition experiments in the laboratory to determine the preference of ovipositing females. We also examined larval survival, pupal mass, and developmental time to compare larval performance on each plant species. Egg density in the field differed significantly among plant species. However, egg density was not correlated exactly with demonstrated oviposition preference. No larvae could develop on two Salix species. This finding indicated that larval survival is the most critical index of larval performance. Larval performance on each plant species was correlated well with oviposition preference that was revealed by a no-choice experiment in the laboratory. However, this correlation was not found in the field. These results indicate that the preference–performance linkage that was observed under laboratory conditions, was not always maintained in the field.