Mating status of coexisting conspecific individuals modulate reproduction in a ladybird, Menochilus sexmaculatus

What is it about?

The experiment was conducted on the biocontrol agent, ladybird beetle, Menochilus sexmaculatus (Fabricius) to see the effect of perceived mating status of conspecific adults on mating behaviour and reproductive output. To conduct the experiment an arena was made with the help of two Petri dishes and muslin cloths in such a manner that the experimental adults were only able to perceive the presence of conspecific adults of different mating status in their close vicinity. The study demonstrated that apart from the direct effect of mating status of the partner, the presence of potential rival in form of unmated and mated adults in the vicinity modify the commencement of mating, its duration and egg laying deferentially.

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