Substrate‐borne vibrational signals and stridulatory organs for sexual communication in leafminer, Liriomyza sativae (Diptera: Agromyzidae). (22nd June 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Zhang, Qikai; Wu, Shengyong; Xing, Zhenlong; Wang, Haihong; Lei, Zhongren
• Is Part Of: Insect science. Volume 30:Number 1(2023)
• Page Start: 221
• Page End: 231
• Publication Date: 2022-06-22
• Subjects: biotremology -- pest control -- stridulatory organs -- vibrational behavioral manipulation; Insects -- Periodicals; Entomology -- Periodicals; 595.705
• DOI: 10.1111/1744-7917.13052
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1672-9609

Abstract

Abstract: The vegetable leafminer ( Liriomyza sativae [Burgess]) is a highly polyphagous pest that threatens vegetables and horticultural plants. Although sexual communication is a key component of the animal behavioral repertoire, the mechanism underlying sexual communication in L. sativae remains to be elucidated. Here, we used laser vibrometry to characterize the vibrational signals emitted by L. sativae during pair formation. By emitting trains of vibrational pulses (male calling) the male initiated communication on the host plant. The female then became immobile and responded to the male calling by emitting replies (female replies), which in turn triggered male replies consisting of a rapid series of chirps and trills. If the female replied, a continuous exchange of male and female replies ensued, representing a duet. In playback trials, a playback signal caused responses from the opposite sex. Moreover, scanning electron microscopy revealed vibration‐producing stridulatory organs in both male and female individuals. The files in males were more developed than those in females, and older male specimens had more signs of abrasion. The results provide new insight into the mating biology of L. sativae . Graphical Abstract: Liriomyza sativae uses substrate vibrational duets for sexual communication. Playback signals can cause males/females to reply. The signals are possibly produced by stridulatory organs.