Authors:

Gloria Yaneth Rivas

Date Created:

Not specified

Course Title:

Professor:

Not specified

About Paper:

Polyandry, a mating system where a female mates with multiple males, is observed across numerous insect taxa which influences the species' genetic diversity, offspring viability, female fecundity, and the dynamics of sexual selection. While mosquitoes are generally considered monandrous, where females mate with only one male, emerging evidence suggests that some species exhibit polyandry. However, far less is known about such mating behavior in non-vector species, those that do not transmit pathogens to humans. This study examines polyandrous behavior in Uranotaenia lowii, a mosquito species that primarily feeds on anuran hosts. We hypothesize that in populations with a 1:1 male-to-female ratio, female Ur. lowii will exhibit polyandry. To test this hypothesis, we carried out two controlled laboratory mating experiments which included blood feeding for egg production after each mating cycle and performing dissections to examine their spermatheca for signs of insemination. We then quantified the mating frequency and assessed the reproductive outcomes associated with polyandrous behavior. Our understanding of mating strategies in non-vector mosquito species provides a valuable comparative framework to evaluate the ecological and evolutionary significance of polyandry across the Culicidae family. Keywords: Ecology; Mating; Polyandry; Spermatheca; Uranotaenia lowii

Source:

Purdue University / 2025

Topics:

No topics listed

Co-authors:

Gloria Yaneth Rivas