Theoretical considerations of mate finding and other adult behaviors of Plecoptera

Abstract

The unknown natural mating systems of Plecoptera will involve some combination of aggregation of the sexes, vibrational or other form of communication and potentially diverse mate searching patterns. Proposed initial aggregation of sexes in Arctoperlaria species is provided by encounter site conventions such as resource‐based feeding sites or various nonresource‐based conventions such as planttopping and bankscrambling. Established patterns of intersexual vibrational communication further aid the mate finding process. Males call for females during a ranging search, then engage in unknown patterns of localized searching after duetting is established. The simplest, most efficient form of localized search would be direct homing on stationary, answering females. Drumming or other means of intersexual communication are unknown in the Antarctoperlaria, and therefore may be lacking in their natural mate finding systems. Some form of finely tuned encounter site behavior may provide sufficient space‐restricted aggregation of sexes in these stoneflies, for effective mate finding. Intensive sampling and observation techniques are proposed for critically needed advancement of our knowledge of adult stonefly life styles.