Two non-destructive techniques for determining the sex of live adult <i>Hylobius warreni</i>

Abstract

Abstract Two non-destructive sexing techniques suitable for use in the field and laboratory are described, and tested with the Warren root collar weevil, Hylobius warreni Wood (Coleoptera: Curculionidae). On the second visible abdominal sternite of males is a longitudinal depression that is absent on females. In addition, setae on the last visible abdominal sternite of females are arranged longitudinally; setae on males are arranged radially. For the first character, accuracy was 90% and sex could be determined without the aid of magnification. The latter character was slightly more reliable, at 95% accuracy, but required at least 12× magnification.