Mating and Oviposition Behavior of the Velvetbean Caterpillar in Soybeans12

Abstract

Flight, feeding, pheromone, mating, and oviposition activities of caged and natural populations of Anticarsia gemmatalis Hübner moths were observed during light and dark hours of August 29 through September 1, and September 11–13, 1972. Mating pairs were more common on soybean plants than on cage walls or other field locations. Copulation lasted an average of 2 h 21 min and occurred most frequently from twilight to midnight. Shortly before copulation, pheromone apparently was emitted, at which time the female abdomen was bent upward. Flight was more directed during darkness than during light periods. Eggs were laid singly between plant hairs, and oviposition occurred through the night.