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Migration and Low Population Density in Armyworm (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) Life Histories

  • Symposium IV: Migration and Dispersal of Tropical Noctuid Moths
  • Published:
International Journal of Tropical Insect Science Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Field and laboratory evidence now suggests that the African armyworm, Spodoptera exempta, is specifically adapted for survival at low population densities, providing a new basis for understanding the significance of its phase polyphenism and migratory strategy. This conclusion allows deductions to be made as to the expected extent of displacement of flying moths from low and, when they occur as a result of impeded or inadequate dispersal of parent moths, high density populations. The proposed migratory strategy which depends on the genetic determination of flight potential also provides a framework for interpreting observed patterns of armyworm outbreaks through the season and in relation to rainfall. Traits associated with a low-density, “armyworm” strategy are shared by other Noctuids which may have similar life histories.

Résumé

Les données de laboratoire et de terrain montrent que la légionnaire africaine, Spodoptera exempta, est spécifiquement adaptée pour survivre dans les conditions de faible densité offrant ainsi une nouvelle structure de base pour comprendre la signification du polyphénisme de phase et la stratégie migratoire de cette espèce. Ceci nous permet de prédire l’étendue des déplacements migratoires des adultes chez les populations de faible densité de même que chez celles de forte densité où la dispersion de la génération précédente a été limitée. La stratégie migratoire proposée, fondée sur une détermination génétique du vol, offre aussi une nouvelle base pour interpréter les épidémies saisonnières, associées avec le phénomène des pluies chez la légionnaire. Les traits qui sont associés à la stratégie pendant les conditions de faible densité sont aussi rencontrés chez d’autres Noctuides qui partagent les mêmes modes de vie.

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  1. School of Animal Biology, University College of North Wales, Bangor, Gwynedd, LL57 2UW, UK

    A. G. Gatehouse

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Gatehouse, A.G. Migration and Low Population Density in Armyworm (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) Life Histories. Int J Trop Insect Sci 8, 573–580 (1987). https://doi.org/10.1017/S1742758400022633

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1017/S1742758400022633

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