Looking for a similar partner: host plants shape mating preferences of herbivorous insects by altering their contact pheromones

The Utility of Visual and Olfactory Maize Leaf Cues in Host Finding by Adult Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)

The fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) (FAW), is an invasive and destructive polyphagous pest that poses a significant threat to global agricultural production. The FAW mainly damages maize, with a particular preference for V3-V5 (third to fifth leaf collar) plant stages in northern China. How the FAW moth precisely locates maize plants in the V3-V5 stage at night remains unclear. The aims of this study were to evaluate the visual and olfactory cues used by the FAW to identify its host plant, maize, in order to select attractants with better trapping efficacy. Hyperspectral analysis of maize plants at different growth stages using the ASD Fieldspec 4 spectrometer was performed using mimics (moths or maize leaves sealed with transparent plastic sheets) and black cloth-covered plants for single visual and single olfactory attraction experiments. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was used to analyze volatiles emitted from V3-V5 stage maize leaves. Volatile organic chemicals (VOCs) were screened using electroantennography (EAG) and Y-tube. Attractor efficacy was validated using mimics + VOCs. Results showed very little variance in the spectral reflectance curve of the maize at different growth stages. Fifteen VOCs were identified in the V3-V5 stage leaves of three different maize varieties, of which cis-3-hexenyl acetate and myrcene were found in relatively high concentrations in these maize varieties. The frequency of visits attracted by single visual stimuli was significantly lower than that attracted by single olfactory or olfactory + visual cues. The attractiveness of foliar cis-3-hexenyl acetate increased as its concentration decreased. The combination of mimics + cis-3-hexenyl acetate (1 ng/μL) increased host detection efficiency and stimulated mating behavior. These results indicate that the nocturnal insect FAW primarily uses olfactory cues for host identification, with visual cues serving as a complementary modality. The synergistic effect of olfactory and visual cues increases the efficiency of host recognition. We found that cis-3-hexenol acetate at a concentration from maize leaves is a reliable olfactory signal for the FAW. When using host plant VOCs as attractants to control adult FAWs, the role of visual cues must be considered.

Plant metabolites modulate social networks and lifespan in a sawfly

Social interactions influence disease spread, information flow and resource allocation across species, yet heterogeneity in social interaction frequency and its fitness consequences are still poorly understood. Additionally, the role of exogenous chemicals, such as non-nutritive plant metabolites that are utilised by several animal species, in shaping social networks remains unclear. Here, we investigated how non-nutritive plant metabolites impact social interactions and the lifespan of the turnip sawfly, Athalia rosae. Adult sawflies acquire neo-clerodane diterpenoids ('clerodanoids') from non-food plants and this can serve as a defence against predation and increase mating success. We found intraspecific variation in clerodanoids in natural populations and laboratory-reared individuals. Clerodanoids could also be acquired from conspecifics that had prior access to the plant metabolites, which led to increased agonistic social interactions. Network analysis indicated increased social interactions in sawfly groups where some or all individuals had prior access to clerodanoids, while groups with no prior access had fewer interactions. The frequency of social interactions was influenced by the clerodanoid status of the focal individual and that of other conspecifics. Finally, we observed a shorter lifespan in adults with prior clerodanoid access when grouped with individuals without prior access, suggesting that social interactions to obtain clerodanoids have fitness costs. Our findings highlight the role of intraspecific variation in the acquisition of non-nutritional plant metabolites in shaping social networks. This variation influences individual fitness and social interactions, thereby shaping the individualised social niche.

Behavioural consequences of intraspecific variability in a mate recognition signal

Mate recognition is paramount for sexually reproducing animals, and many insects rely on cuticular hydrocarbons (CHCs) for close-range sexual communication. To ensure reliable mate recognition, intraspecific sex pheromone variability should be low. However, CHCs can be influenced by several factors, with the resulting variability potentially impacting sexual communication. While intraspecific CHC variability is a common phenomenon, the consequences thereof for mate recognition remain largely unknown. We investigated the effect of CHC variability on male responses in a parasitoid wasp showing a clear-cut within-population CHC polymorphism (three distinct female chemotypes, one thereof similar to male profiles). Males clearly discriminated between female and male CHCs, but not between female chemotypes in no-choice assays. When given a choice, a preference hierarchy emerged. Interestingly, the most attractive chemotype was the one most similar to male profiles. Mixtures of female CHCs were as attractive as chemotype-pure ones, while a female-male mixture negatively impacted male responses, indicating assessment of the entire, complex CHC profile composition. Our study reveals that the evaluation of CHC profiles can be strict towards 'undesirable' features, but simultaneously tolerant enough to cover a range of variants. This reconciles reliable mate recognition with naturally occurring variability.

Host Plant Effects on Sexual Selection Dynamics in Phytophagous Insects

Natural selection is notoriously dynamic in nature, and so, too, is sexual selection. The interactions between phytophagous insects and their host plants have provided valuable insights into the many ways in which ecological factors can influence sexual selection. In this review, we highlight recent discoveries and provide guidance for future work in this area. Importantly, host plants can affect both the agents of sexual selection (e.g., mate choice and male-male competition) and the traits under selection (e.g., ornaments and weapons). Furthermore, in our rapidly changing world, insects now routinely encounter new potential host plants. The process of adaptation to a new host may be hindered or accelerated by sexual selection, and the unexplored evolutionary trajectories that emerge from these dynamics are relevant to pest management and insect conservation strategies. Examining the effects of host plants on sexual selection has the potential to advance our fundamental understanding of sexual conflict, host range evolution, and speciation, with relevance across taxa.

Chemical Camouflage Induced by Diet in a Pest Treehopper on Host Plants

Ants patrol foliage and exert a strong selective pressure on herbivorous insects, being their primary predators. As ants are chemically oriented, some organisms that interact with them (myrmecophiles) use chemical strategies mediated by their cuticular hydrocarbons (CHCs) to deal with ants. Thus, a better understanding of the ecology and evolution of the mutualistic interactions between myrmecophiles and ants depends on the accurate recognition of these chemical strategies. Few studies have examined whether treehoppers may use an additional strategy called chemical camouflage to reduce ant aggression, and none considered highly polyphagous pest insects. We analyzed whether the chemical similarity of the CHC profiles of three host plants from three plant families (Fabaceae, Malvaceae, and Moraceae) and the facultative myrmecophilous honeydew-producing treehopper Aetalion reticulatum (Hemiptera: Aetalionidae), a pest of citrus plants, may play a role as a proximate mechanism serving as a protection against ant attacks on plants. We found a high similarity (>80%) between the CHCs of the treehoppers and two of their host plants. The treehoppers acquire CHCs through their diet, and the chemical similarity varies according to host plant. Chemical camouflage on host plants plays a role in the interaction of treehoppers with their ant mutualistic partners.

Despite genetic isolation in sympatry, post-copulatory reproductive barriers have not evolved between bat- and human-associated common bedbugs (Cimex lectularius L.)

BACKGROUND

The common bedbug Cimex lectularius is a widespread ectoparasite on humans and bats. Two genetically isolated lineages, parasitizing either human (HL) or bat (BL) hosts, have been suggested to differentiate because of their distinct ecology. The distribution range of BL is within that of HL and bedbugs live mostly on synanthropic bat hosts. This sympatric co-occurrence predicts strong reproductive isolation at the post-copulatory level.

RESULTS

We tested the post-copulatory barrier in three BL and three HL populations in reciprocal crosses, using a common-garden blood diet that was novel to both lineages. We excluded pre-copulation isolation mechanisms and studied egg-laying rates after a single mating until the depletion of sperm, and the fitness of the resulting offspring. We found a higher sperm storage capability in BL, likely reflecting the different seasonal availability of HL and BL hosts. We also observed a notable variation in sperm function at the population level within lineages and significant differences in fecundity and offspring fitness between lineages. However, no difference in egg numbers or offspring fitness was observed between within- and between-lineage crosses.

CONCLUSIONS

Differences in sperm storage or egg-laying rates between HL and BL that we found did not affect reproductive isolation. Neither did the population-specific variation in sperm function. Overall, our results show no post-copulatory reproductive isolation between the lineages. How genetic differentiation in sympatry is maintained in the absence of a post-copulatory barrier between BL and HL remains to be investigated.

Cuticular Hydrocarbon Polymorphism in a Parasitoid Wasp

Cuticular hydrocarbons (CHCs) are major constituents of the cuticular lipid layer of insects. They serve not only as a barrier to desiccation, but often additionally mediate communication at close range. The compositions of the CHC profiles, i.e., the specific compounds and their relative amounts, usually differ between species. Additional intraspecific variability can be found between different populations, between colonies and castes of social insects, and between the sexes. Thus, such groups can often be distinguished based on distinctive compounds and/or specific compound ratios. The CHC profile may further be influenced by biotic and abiotic factors, which therefore can impact, e.g., nestmate recognition or mate choice. However, consistent intrasexual variation seems to be rare. Here, we investigated a case of intrasexual CHC variability within a single population of a parasitoid wasp. While wasps of both sexes produced the same set of compounds, the relative amounts of specific compound classes revealed the presence of intrasexual chemical phenotypes. This is, to our knowledge, the first report of three distinct female CHC profile patterns within a population of a solitary insect that uses CHCs for mate recognition. Additionally, male CHC profiles, while overall very similar, could be separated into two chemotypes by multivariate analysis. The study of species exhibiting such intraspecific and intrasexual CHC variation will advance our understanding of the effects of CHC variability on both, desiccation resistance and intraspecific communication.

Odor Perception in the Cotton Bollworm, Helicoverpa armigera, Exposed to Juglans regia, a Marginal Host Plant

The cotton bollworm, Helicoverpa armigera, is one of the most destructive agricultural pests in the world, infesting cotton, maize, soybean, and many other crops. In recent years, H. armigera has been observed damaging walnuts, Juglans regia, in Xinjiang China. Here we examine the chemical perception by H. armigera of the marginal host J. regia. In Y-tube olfactometer tests, we found H. armigera females and males both showed significant behavioral responses to odors from walnut branches. Furthermore, nine electrophysiologically active volatiles (α-pinene, β-pinene, myrcene, limonene, eucalyptol, ocimene, β-caryophyllene, (E)-β-farnesene, and germacrene D) were identified from walnuts with gas chromatography coupled with electroantennography (GC-EAD) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Among these volatiles, β-pinene and eucalyptol were released in relatively higher amounts. In electroantennogram (EAG) dose-dependent trials, all compounds evoked responses in H. armigera adults when tested at high concentrations, with germacrene D evoking the greatest response. In wind tunnel tests, H. armigera females preferred eight of the electrophysiologically active volatile dilutions compared with clean air, while males showed preference for only five compounds. As such we describe the chemical recognition of H. armigera for walnut, a marginal host. This study contributes to understanding the interaction between polyphagous pests and their host plants.

Improving Natural Enemy Selection in Biological Control through Greater Attention to Chemical Ecology and Host-Associated Differentiation of Target Arthropod Pests

Host-associated differentiation (HAD) refers to cases in which genetically distinct populations of a species (e.g., herbivores or natural enemies) preferentially reproduce or feed on different host species. In agroecosystems, HAD often results in unique strains or biotypes of pest species, each attacking different species of crops. However, HAD is not restricted to pest populations, and may cascade to the third trophic level, affecting host selection by natural enemies, and ultimately leading to HAD within natural enemy species. Natural enemy HAD may affect the outcomes of biological control efforts, whether classical, conservation, or augmentative. Here, we explore the potential effects of pest and natural enemy HAD on biological control in agroecosystems, with emphases on current knowledge gaps and implications of HAD for selection of biological control agents. Additionally, given the importance of semiochemicals in mediating interactions between trophic levels, we emphasize the role of chemical ecology in interactions between pests and natural enemies, and suggest areas of consideration for biological control. Overall, we aim to jump-start a conversation concerning the relevance of HAD in biological control by reviewing currently available information on natural enemy HAD, identifying challenges to incorporating HAD considerations into biological control efforts, and proposing future research directions on natural enemy selection and HAD.

Environmental Correlates of Sexual Signaling in the Heteroptera: A Prospective Study

Sexual selection is a major evolutionary process, shaping organisms in terms of success in competition for access to mates and their gametes. The study of sexual selection has provided rich empirical and theoretical literature addressing the ecological and evolutionary causes and consequences of competition for gametes. However, there remains a bias towards individual, species-specific studies, whilst broader, cross-species comparisons looking for wider-ranging patterns in sexual selection remain uncommon. For instance, we are still some ways from understanding why particular kinds of traits tend to evolve under sexual selection, and under what circumstances. Here we consider sexual selection in the Heteroptera, a sub-order of the Hemiptera, or true bugs. The latter is the largest of the hemimetabolous insect orders, whilst the Heteroptera itself comprises some 40,000-plus described species. We focus on four key sexual signaling modes found in the Heteroptera: chemical signals, acoustic signaling via stridulation, vibrational (substrate) signaling, and finally tactile signaling (antennation). We compare how these modes vary across broad habitat types and provide a review of each type of signal. We ask how we might move towards a more predictive theory of sexual selection, that links mechanisms and targets of sexual selection to various ecologies.

Cuticular Hydrocarbon Plasticity in Three Rice Planthopper Species

Insect cuticular hydrocarbons (CHCs) are organic compounds of the surface lipid layer, which function as a barrier against water loss and xenobiotic penetration, while also serving as chemical signals. Plasticity of CHC profiles can vary depending upon numerous biological and environmental factors. Here, we investigated potential sources of variation in CHC profiles of Nilaparvata lugens, Laodelphax striatellus and Sogatella furcifera, which are considered to be the most important rice pests in Asia. CHC profiles were quantified by GC/MS, and factors associated with variations were explored by conducting principal component analysis (PCA). Transcriptomes were further compared under different environmental conditions. The results demonstrated that CHC profiles differ among three species and change with different developmental stages, sexes, temperature, humidity and host plants. Genes involved in cuticular lipid biosynthesis pathways are modulated, which might explain why CHC profiles vary among species under different environments. Our study illustrates some biological and ecological variations in modifying CHC profiles, and the underlying molecular regulation mechanisms of the planthoppers in coping with changes of environmental conditions, which is of great importance for identifying potential vulnerabilities relating to pest ecology and developing novel pest management strategies.

Attraction of Brown Marmorated Stink Bugs, Halyomorpha halys, to Blooming Sunflower Semiochemicals

The polyphagous invasive brown marmorated stink bug, Halyomorpha halys, reportedly discriminates among phenological stages of host plants. To determine whether olfaction is involved in host plant stage discrimination, we selected (dwarf) sunflower, Helianthus annuus, as a model host plant species. When adult females of a still-air laboratory experiment were offered a choice of four potted sunflowers at distinct phenological stages (vegetative, pre-bloom, bloom, seeding), most females settled onto blooming plants but oviposited evenly on plants of all four stages. In moving-air two-choice olfactometer experiments, we then tested each plant stage versus filtered air and versus one another, for attraction of H. halys females. Blooming sunflowers performed best overall, but no one plant stage was most attractive in all experiments. Capturing and analyzing (by GC-MS) the headspace odorants of each plant stage revealed a marked increase of odorant abundance (e.g., monoterpenes) as plants transitioned from pre-bloom to bloom. Analyzing the headspace odorant blend of blooming sunflower by gas chromatographic-electroantennographic detection (GC-EAD) revealed 13 odorants that consistently elicited responses from female H. halys antennae. An 11-component synthetic blend of these odorants attracted H. halys females in laboratory olfactometer experiments. Furthermore, in field settings, the synthetic blend enhanced the attractiveness of synthetic H. halys pheromone as a trap lure, particularly in spring (April to mid-June). A simpler yet fully effective sunflower semiochemical blend could be developed and coupled with synthetic H. halys aggregation pheromones to improve monitoring efforts or could improve the efficacy of modified attract-and-kill control tactics for H. halys.

Evolutionary importance of intraspecific variation in sex pheromones

Sex pheromones in many insect species are important species-recognition signals that attract conspecifics and inhibit attraction between heterospecifics; therefore, sex pheromones have predominantly been considered to evolve due to interactions between species. Recent research, however, is uncovering roles for these signals in mate choice, and that variation within and between populations can be drivers of species evolution. Variation in pheromone communication channels arises from a combination of context-dependent, condition-dependent, or genetic mechanisms in both signalers and receivers. Variation can affect mate choice and thus gene flow between individuals and populations, affecting species' evolution. The complex interactions between intraspecific and interspecific selection forces calls for more integrative studies to understand the evolution of sex pheromone communication.

Does Larval Rearing Diet Lead to Premating Isolation in Spodoptera litura (Fabricius) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)?

Simple Summary

Spodoptera litura Fabricius (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) is a serious polyphagous pest. Most studies focus on the effects of natural hosts on S. litura. However, progressively more laboratory studies S. litura involve feeding the larvae with an artificial diet. We compared the life performance and observed mating choice of S. litura reared on tobacco, Chinese cabbage, and an artificial diet. The results revealed that diet had a significant effect on the duration of each stage of development. In the multiple-choice test with individual males consuming tobacco, Chinese cabbage, or an artificial diet, females fed on the artificial diet preferred to mate with males that were fed on the same diet and rarely mated with males fed on tobacco or Chinese cabbage. We suggest that the diet of S. litura has a potential impact on mate choice and sexual isolation.

Abstract

Host plant preference during the larval stage may help shape not only phenotypic plasticity but also behavioral isolation. We assessed the effects of diet on population parameters and mate choice in Spodoptera litura. We raised larvae fed on tobacco, Chinese cabbage, or an artificial diet, and we observed the shortest developmental time and highest fecundity in individuals fed the artificial diet. However, survival rates were higher for larvae on either of the natural diets. Population parameters including intrinsic rate of increase and finite rate of increase were significantly higher with the artificial diet, but this diet led to a lower mean generation time. Copulation duration, copulation time, and number of eggs reared significantly differed between diets. In terms of mate choice, females on the artificial diet rarely mated with males fed on a natural host. Our results support the hypothesis that different diets may promote behavioral isolation, affecting mating outcomes. Thus, findings for populations fed an artificial diet may not reflect findings for populations in the field.

Host plants transfer induced regulation of the chemosensory genes repertoire in the alfalfa plant bug Adelphocoris lineolatus (Goeze)

The alfalfa plant bug Adelphocoris lineolatus, an economically important pest, has representative behavioral characteristics with host plants transfer. Olfactory system is essential for insects to perceive ever-changing chemical signals in the external environment, and chemosensory genes play crucial roles in signals reception and transduction. In this work, we compared the differences in chemosensory genes expression before and after host plants transfer by constructing 12 antennal transcriptomes of male and female bugs, respectively. The results showed that the expression levels of most chemosensory genes in A. lineolatus changed to adapt to the transformation of the hosts plant. More remarkable, female bugs had more up-regulated chemosensory genes than males. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) analysis revealed three odorant binding proteins (OBPs), three chemosensory proteins (CSPs), eight odorant receptors (ORs) and one ionotropic receptor (IR) showed significant differences when the host plant transferred. There were complex characteristics of up- and down- regulated genes in male and female adults, among which OBP19 showed higher expression in females exposing to the new host plant alfalfa, suggesting this OBP may be associated with the localization of the oviposition site. The OR54 and OR82 were up-regulated in both genders, indicating their possible roles in recognizing some alfalfa-specific volatiles. These findings will provide valuable insights in biological functions of chemosensory genes in A. lineolatus and facilitate the development of new targets for novel strategies to control the alfalfa plant bug and other herbivores.

Chemical Ecology, Biochemistry, and Molecular Biology of Insect Hydrocarbons

Insect cuticular hydrocarbons (CHCs) consist of complex mixtures of straight-chain alkanes and alkenes, and methyl-branched hydrocarbons. In addition to restricting water loss through the cuticle and preventing desiccation, they have secondarily evolved to serve a variety of functions in chemical communication and play critical roles as signals mediating the life histories of insects. In this review, we describe the physical properties of CHCs that allow for both waterproofing and signaling functions, summarize their roles as inter- and intraspecific chemical signals, and discuss the influences of diet and environment on CHC profiles. We also present advances in our understanding of hydrocarbon biosynthesis. Hydrocarbons are biosynthesized in oenocytes and transported to the cuticle by lipophorin proteins. Recent work on the synthesis of fatty acids and their ultimate reductive decarbonylation to hydrocarbons has taken advantage of powerful new tools of molecular biology, including genomics and RNA interference knockdown of specific genes, to provide new insights into the biosynthesis of hydrocarbons.

The Importance of Methyl-Branched Cuticular Hydrocarbons for Successful Host Recognition by the Larval Ectoparasitoid Holepyris sylvanidis

Cuticular hydrocarbons (CHCs) of host insects are used by many parasitic wasps as contact kairomones for host location and recognition. As the chemical composition of CHCs varies from species to species, the CHC pattern represents a reliable indicator for parasitoids to discriminate host from non-host species. Holepyris sylvanidis is an ectoparasitoid of beetle larvae infesting stored products. Previous studies demonstrated that the larval CHC profile of the confused flour beetle, Tribolium confusum, comprises long chain linear and methyl-branched alkanes (methyl alkanes), which elicit trail following and host recognition in H. sylvanidis. Here we addressed the question, whether different behavioral responses of this parasitoid species to larvae of other beetle species are due to differences in the larval CHC pattern. Our study revealed that H. sylvanidis recognizes and accepts larvae of T. confusum, T. castaneum and T. destructor as hosts, whereas larvae of Oryzaephilus surinamensis were rejected. However, the latter species became attractive after applying a sample of T. confusum larval CHCs to solvent extracted larvae. Chemical analyses of the larval extracts revealed that CHC profiles of the Tribolium species were similar in their composition, while that of O. surinamensis differed qualitatively and quantitatively, i.e. methyl alkanes were present as minor components on the cuticle of all Tribolium larvae, but were absent in the O. surinamensis CHC profile. Furthermore, the parasitoid successfully recognized solvent extracted T. confusum larvae as hosts after they had been treated with a fraction of methyl alkanes. Our results show that methyl alkanes are needed for host recognition by H. sylvanidis.

Ant cuticular hydrocarbons are heritable and associated with variation in colony productivity

In social insects, cuticular hydrocarbons function in nest-mate recognition and also provide a waxy barrier against desiccation, but basic evolutionary features, including the heritability of hydrocarbon profiles and how they are shaped by natural selection are largely unknown. We used a new pharaoh ant (Monomorium pharaonis) laboratory mapping population to estimate the heritability of individual cuticular hydrocarbons, genetic correlations between hydrocarbons, and fitness consequences of phenotypic variation in the hydrocarbons. Individual hydrocarbons had low to moderate estimated heritability, indicating that some compounds provide more information about genetic relatedness and can also better respond to natural selection. Strong genetic correlations between compounds are likely to constrain independent evolutionary trajectories, which is expected, given that many hydrocarbons share biosynthetic pathways. Variation in cuticular hydrocarbons was associated with variation in colony productivity, with some hydrocarbons experiencing strong directional selection. Altogether, this study builds on our knowledge of the genetic architecture of the social insect hydrocarbon profile and indicates that hydrocarbon variation is shaped by natural selection.

A phenotypically plastic magic trait promoting reproductive isolation in sticklebacks?

This study identifies one possible mechanism whereby gene flow is interrupted in populations undergoing evolutionary divergence in sympatry; this is an important issue in evolutionary biology that remains poorly understood. Variation in trophic morphology was induced in three-spined stickleback by exposing them from an early age either to large benthic or to small pelagic prey. At sexual maturity, females given a choice between two breeding males, showed positive assortative mate choice for males raised on the same diet as themselves. The data indicate that this was mediated through a preference for males with trophic morphology similar to that of fish with which the females were familiar (from their pre-testing holding tanks). In trials where the female did not choose the most familiar male, the evidence suggests that either she had difficulty discriminating between two similar males or was positively choosing males with more extreme morphologies (more benthic-like or pelagic-like). This study has shown for the first time that expression of a plastic trait induced at an early age, not only results in specialisation for local foraging regimes but can also play a significant role in mate choice. This is equivalent to an environmentally induced, plastic version of the “magic traits” that promote ecologically-driven divergence in sympatry, hence the proposed descriptor “plastic magic trait”.

Host shift induces changes in mate choice of the seed predator Acanthoscelides obtectus via altered chemical signalling

The mechanisms of host shift in phytophagous insects are poorly understood. Among the many proposed processes involved, sexual selection via semiochemicals has recently been suggested. This hypothesizes that sexual communication using pheromones is modified as a result of development on a new host, and such plant-induced phenotypic divergence in mate recognition cues can lead to reproductive isolation between host lines. We tested this hypothesis on Acanthoscelides obtectus, an oligophagous bruchid of Phaseolus vulgaris beans worldwide, which also develops in acceptable non-hosts, such as chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.). Male sex pheromone blends of the bean, chickpea and chickpea/bean host lines during artificially induced host shifts showed different composition. Bean-reared females did not distinguish between blends, whereas chickpea and chickpea/bean females preferred the chickpea male pheromone. However, electrophysiological (EAG) responses to male odour of antennae of the three female host lines were similar, all preferring bean-reared males. Egg-laying choice tests revealed a uniform preference for bean seeds across female host lines, even after multiple generations, whereas larvae did not distinguish between bean and chickpea seeds. We conclude that the development of divergent chemical signalling systems during host shifts does not facilitate the evolution of host races in A. obtectus, because oviposition preferences remain unaffected.

Lifetime inbreeding depression in a leaf beetle

Ongoing habitat loss and fragmentation result in rapid population size reductions, which can increase the levels of inbreeding. Consequently, many species are threatened by inbreeding depression, a loss of individual fitness following the mating of close relatives. Here, we investigated inbreeding effects on fitness-related traits throughout the lifetime of the mustard leaf beetle (Phaedon cochleariae) and mechanisms for the avoidance of inbreeding. Previously, we found that these beetles have family-specific cuticular hydrocarbon profiles, which are likely not used as recognition cue for precopulatory inbreeding avoidance. Thus, we examined whether adult beetles show postcopulatory inbreeding avoidance instead. For this purpose, we determined the larval hatching rate of eggs laid by females mated sequentially with two nonsiblings, two siblings, a nonsibling, and a sibling or vice versa. The beetles suffered from inbreeding depression throughout their entire ontogeny, as evinced by a prolonged larval development, a decreased larval and adult survival and a decreased reproductive output of inbred compared to outbred individuals. The highest larval hatching rates were detected when females were mated with two nonsiblings or first with a sibling and second with a nonsibling. Significantly lower hatching rates were measured in the treatments with a sibling as second male. Thus, the results do not support the existence of postcopulatory inbreeding avoidance in P. cochleariae, but revealed evidence for second male sperm precedence. Consequently, an alternative strategy to avoid inbreeding costs might exist in this beetle, such as a polyandrous mating system, potentially coupled with a specific dispersal behavior.

Differences in the reliance on cuticular hydrocarbons as sexual signaling and species discrimination cues in parasitoid wasps

Background

Cuticular hydrocarbons (CHC) have been documented to play crucial roles as species- and sex-specific cues in the chemical communication systems of a wide variety of insects. However, whether they are sufficient by themselves as the sole cue triggering sexual behavior as well as preference of con- over heterospecific mating partners is rarely assessed. We conducted behavioral assays in three representative species of parasitoid wasps (Hymenoptera: Pteromalidae) to determine their reliance on CHC as species-specific sexual signaling cues.

Results

We found a surprising degree of either unspecific or insufficient sexual signaling when CHC are singled out as recognition cues. Most strikingly, the cosmopolitan species Nasonia vitripennis, expected to experience enhanced selection pressure to discriminate against other co-occurring parasitoids, did not discriminate against CHC of a partially sympatric species from another genus, Trichomalopsis sarcophagae. Focusing on the latter species, in turn, it became apparent that CHC are even insufficient as the sole cue triggering conspecific sexual behavior, hinting at the requirement of additional, synergistic sexual cues particularly important in this species. Finally, in the phylogenetically and chemically most divergent species Muscidifurax uniraptor, we intriguingly found both CHC-based sexual signaling as well as species discrimination behavior intact although this species is naturally parthenogenetic with sexual reproduction only occurring under laboratory conditions.

Conclusions

Our findings implicate a discrepancy in the reliance on and specificity of CHC as sexual cues in our tested parasitioid wasps. CHC profiles were not sufficient for unambiguous discrimination and preference behavior, as demonstrated by clear cross-attraction between some of our tested wasp genera. Moreover, we could show that only in T. sarcophagae, additional behavioral cues need to be present for triggering natural mating behavior, hinting at an interesting shift in signaling hierarchy in this particular species. This demonstrates the importance of integrating multiple, potentially complementary signaling modalities in future studies for a better understanding of their individual contributions to natural sexual communication behavior.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12983-018-0263-z) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Phenotypic Plasticity of Cuticular Hydrocarbon Profiles in Insects

The insect integument is covered by cuticular hydrocarbons (CHCs) which provide protection against environmental stresses, but are also used for communication. Here we review current knowledge on environmental and insect-internal factors which shape phenotypic plasticity of solitary living insects, especially herbivorous ones. We address the dynamics of changes which may occur within minutes, but may also last weeks, depending on the species and conditions. Two different modes of changes are suggested, i.e. stepwise and gradual. A switch between two distinct environments (e.g. host plant switch by phytophagous insects) results in stepwise formation of two distinct adaptive phenotypes, while a gradual environmental change (e.g. temperature gradients) induces a gradual change of numerous adaptive CHC phenotypes. We further discuss the ecological and evolutionary consequences of phenotypic plasticity of insect CHC profiles by addressing the question at which conditions is CHC phenotypic plasticity beneficial. The high plasticity of CHC profiles might be a trade-off for insects using CHCs for communication. We discuss how insects cope with the challenge to produce and "understand" a highly plastic, environmentally dependent CHC pattern that conveys reliable and comprehensible information. Finally, we outline how phenotypic plasticity of CHC profiles may promote speciation in insects that rely on CHCs for mate recognition.

Pheromones-based sexual selection in a rapidly changing world

Insects utilise chemical cues for a range of different purposes and the complexity and degree of specificity of these signals is arguably unparalleled in the animal kingdom. Chemical signals are particularly important for insect reproduction and the selective pressures driving their evolution and maintenance have been the subject of previous reviews. However, the world in which chemical cues evolved and are maintained is changing at an unprecedented rate. How (or indeed whether) chemical signals used in sexual selection will respond is largely unknown. Here, we explore how recent increases in urbanisation and associated anthropogenic impacts may affect how chemical signals are produced and perceived. We focus on four anthropomorphic influences which have the potential to interact with pheromone-mediated sexual selection processes; climatic temperature shifts, exposure to chemical pollutants, the presence of artificial light at night and nutrient availability. Our aim is to provide a broad overview of key areas where the rapidly changing environment of the future might specifically affect pheromones utilised in sexual selection.

Sublethal insecticide exposure affects reproduction, chemical phenotype as well as offspring development and antennae symmetry of a leaf beetle

The area of agriculturally used land and following to that the use of pesticides are steadily increasing. Insecticides do not only reduce pest organisms on crops but can also affect non-target organisms when present in sublethal concentrations in the environment. We investigated the effects of an exposure to sublethal pyrethroid (lambda-cyhalothrin) concentrations, at doses 20 and 60 times lower than the LC₅₀, respectively, on reproductive traits and adult cuticular hydrocarbon (CHC) profiles of a leaf beetle (Phaedon cochleariae Fabricius). Furthermore, we tested for effects on growth and antennae symmetry of the offspring generation that was not exposed to the insecticide. Sublethal insecticide concentrations decreased the egg number produced by the adults and the hatching rate. Moreover, the chemical phenotype (CHC profile) of adults was altered in dependence of the insecticide treatment, with sex-specific effects. In the unexposed offspring of insecticide-exposed parents, a prolonged development time and a fluctuating asymmetry of the females' antennae were detected, revealing transgenerational effects. The insecticide effects on the CHC profiles of the parental generation might have been caused by changes in CHC precursors, which were potentially induced by the insecticide treatment of the insect diet. Such altered CHC pattern may have implications for intraspecific communication, e.g., in mate choice, as well as in an interspecific way, e.g., in interactions with other arthropod species. The observed detrimental transgenerational effects might be explainable by a reduced investment in the offspring, maternal transfer or epigenetic processes. An asymmetry of the antennae may lead to defects in the reception of chemical signals. In conclusion, the results disclose that, besides detrimental (transgenerational) effects on reproduction and development, an exposure to sublethal insecticide concentrations can impair the chemical communication between individuals, with impacts on the sender (i.e., the CHC profile) and the receiver (i.e., caused by asymmetry of the antennae).

Variation in the web-based chemical cues of Argiope keyserlingi

Pheromones are chemical compounds used to transmit information between individuals of the same species. Pheromone composition is influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. Numerous studies, predominately of insects, have demonstrated a role for diet in pheromone expression. The chemical composition of spider web-silk varies with diet and in many species these chemicals are crucial to mate choice processes. Here, we investigated individual variation in the chemical compounds found on the surface of web-silk of female Argiope keyserlingi, and further explored the degree to which they are influenced by diet, investment in egg sac production and site of collection. We observed variation in the web-based chemical cues both between and within individuals. Additionally, we found that some of this variation could be explained by diet and gravid status but not by collection site. We discuss our findings in relation to mate choice processes and the costs and benefits of the observed variation in these web-based chemicals.

Phenotype of a leaf beetle larva depends on host plant quality and previous test experience

Phenotypic expressions of insects are strongly dependent on various external and internal factors, like diet or density and age or sex. However, environmental effects on the behavioural phenotype and repeatability are rather unexplored for holometabolous insects in their larval stage. We examined the effects of the food environment (young versus old cabbage leaves) and previous test experience on growth and behaviour of Phaedon cochleariae larvae. A more nutritious diet, i.e., young leaves, had beneficial consequences on larval growth. Contrary to findings on adults, the behaviour of larvae was neither consistent over time nor across contexts, thus larvae did not show personality. Furthermore, larval behaviour was shaped independent of the diet, pointing to a stage-dependent receptivity towards diet conditions in this species. Besides, larval activity was significantly influenced by former test experience, with naïve larvae being more active than previously tested larvae. In general, in insects memories in an olfactory or sexual behaviour context can lead to behavioural responses later in life. Mechanisms of memory-learning should be further explored in different contexts in insects. Overall, the present study reveals that growth-related traits are diet-dependent and that the activity of a holometabolous larva is shaped in dependence of its previous test experience.

Divergence of cuticular hydrocarbons in two sympatric grasshopper species and the evolution of fatty acid synthases and elongases across insects

Cuticular hydrocarbons (CHCs) play a major role in the evolution of reproductive isolation between insect species. The CHC profiles of two closely related sympatric grasshopper species, Chorthippus biguttulus and C. mollis, differ mainly in the position of the first methyl group in major methyl-branched CHCs. The position of methyl branches is determined either by a fatty acid synthase (FAS) or by elongases. Both protein families showed an expansion in insects. Interestingly, the FAS family showed several lineage-specific expansions, especially in insect orders with highly diverse methyl-branched CHC profiles. We found five putative FASs and 12 putative elongases in the reference transcriptomes for both species. A dN/dS test showed no evidence for positive selection acting on FASs and elongases in these grasshoppers. However, one candidate FAS showed species-specific transcriptional differences and may contribute to the shift of the methyl-branch position between the species. In addition, transcript levels of four elongases were expressed differentially between the sexes. Our study indicates that complex methyl-branched CHC profiles are linked to an expansion of FASs genes, but that species differences can also mediated at the transcriptional level.

Differentiation in putative male sex pheromone components across and within populations of the African butterfly Bicyclus anynana as a potential driver of reproductive isolation

Sexual traits are often the most divergent characters among closely related species, suggesting an important role of sexual traits in speciation. However, to prove this, we need to show that sexual trait differences accumulate before or during the speciation process, rather than being a consequence of it. Here, we contrast patterns of divergence among putative male sex pheromone (pMSP) composition and the genetic structure inferred from variation in the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase 1 and nuclear CAD loci in the African butterfly Bicyclus anynana (Butler, 1879) to determine whether the evolution of "pheromonal dialects" occurs before or after the differentiation process. We observed differences in abundance of some shared pMSP components as well as differences in the composition of the pMSP among B. anynana populations. In addition, B. anynana individuals from Kenya displayed differences in the pMSP composition within a single population that appeared not associated with genetic differences. These differences in pMSP composition both between and within B. anynana populations were as large as those found between different Bicyclus species. Our results suggest that "pheromonal dialects" evolved within and among populations of B. anynana and may therefore act as precursors of an ongoing speciation process.

Phenotypic plasticity of mate recognition systems prevents sexual interference between two sympatric leaf beetle species

Maladaptive sexual interactions among heterospecific individuals (sexual interference) can prevent the coexistence of animal species. Thus, the avoidance of sexual interference by divergence of mate recognition systems is crucial for a stable coexistence in sympatry. Mate recognition systems are thought to be under tight genetic control. However, we demonstrate that mate recognition systems of two closely related sympatric leaf beetle species show a high level of host-induced phenotypic plasticity. Mate choice in the mustard leaf beetles, Phaedon cochleariae and P. armoraciae, is mediated by cuticular hydrocarbons (CHCs). Divergent host plant use causes a divergence of CHC phenotypes, whereas similar host use leads to their convergence. Consequently, both species exhibit significant behavioral isolation when they feed on alternative host species, but mate randomly when using a common host. Thus, sexual interference between these syntopic leaf beetles is prevented by host-induced phenotypic plasticity rather than by genotypic divergence of mate recognition systems.

Do differences in life-history traits and the timing of peak mating activity between host-associated populations of Chilo suppressalis have a genetic basis?

The development of host races, genetically distinct populations of the same species with different hosts, is considered to be the initial stage of ecological speciation. Ecological and biological differences consistent with host race formation have been reported between water-oat and rice-associated populations of Chilo suppressalis. In order to confirm whether these differences have a genetic basis, we conducted experiments to determine the extent to which various life-history traits and the time of peak mating activity of these populations were influenced by the species of host plant larvae were raised on. Individuals from each population were reared for three consecutive generations on either water-oat fruit pulp or rice seedlings. Descendants of both populations had higher larval survival rates, shorter larval developmental periods, higher pupal weight, and longer adult forewings, when reared on water-oats than when reared on rice. The time of peak of mating activity differed between the descendants of each population, irrespective of whether they were raised on water-oats or rice. These results indicate that although some life-history traits of host-associated populations of C. suppressalis are influenced by the host plant larvae are raised on, time of peak mating activity is not. Because it is a stable, objective, phenotypic trait, further research on difference in the time of peak mating activity between host-associated populations of C. suppressalis should be conducted to clarify the mechanism responsible for host race formation in this species.

Consequences of mating with siblings and nonsiblings on the reproductive success in a leaf beetle

Choosing a suitable mating partner is crucial for the fitness of an individual, whereby mating with siblings often results in inbreeding depression. We studied consequences of mating with siblings versus nonsiblings in the mustard leaf beetle, Phaedon cochleariae (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae), on lifetime reproductive traits. Furthermore, we analyzed whether cuticular hydrocarbon (CHC) profiles are family specific and could potentially influence the mating behavior of young adults. We hypothesized a reduced reproductive success of females mated with siblings and a more rapid mating of males with nonsiblings. The hatching rate from eggs of sibling pairs was lower compared to that of nonsibling pairs, pointing to inbreeding depression. Furthermore, the number of eggs laid by females decreased over time in both sibling and nonsibling pairs. Interestingly, the CHC profiles and the body mass differed between families. However, the beetles did not avoid siblings and accepted them as readily as nonsiblings for mating in no‐choice tests. In summary, although it had negative consequences to mate a sibling and although siblings could potentially be recognized by their CHC profiles, the beetles did not show a delayed mating with siblings. Our results indicate that P. cochleariae beetles have not developed a precopulatory mechanism to avoid inbreeding, at least under the test conditions applied here. We predict that instead a polyandrous mating system and/or postcopulatory mechanisms might have evolved in this species by which inbreeding costs can be reduced.

'Does my Diet Affect my Perfume?' Identification and Quantification of Cuticular Compounds in Five Drosophila melanogaster Strains Maintained over 300 Generations on Different Diets

Cuticular hydrocarbons (CHCs) in Drosophila melanogaster represent the basis of chemical communication being involved in many important biological functions. The aim of this study was to characterize chemical composition and variation of cuticular profiles in five D. melanogaster strains. These strains were reared for approximately 300 generations on five diets: standard cornmeal medium and substrates prepared with apple, banana, tomato, and carrot. Differences in quantity and/or quality in CHCs were assumed as a result of activation of different metabolic pathways involved in food digestion and adaptations to the particular diet type. In total, independently of sex and strain, 66 chemical compounds were identified. In females of all strains, 60 compounds were identified, while, in males, 47 compounds were extracted. Certain new chemical compounds for D. melanogaster were found. MANOVA confirmed that CHC amounts significantly depend on sex and substrates, as well as on their interactions. Discriminant analysis revealed that flies belonging to 'apple' and 'carrot' strains exhibited the most noticeable differences in CHC repertoires. A non-hydrocarbon pheromone, cis-vaccenyl acetate (cVA) also contributed to the variation in the pheromone bouquet among the strains. Variability detected in CHCs and cVA may be used in the explanation of differences in mating behaviour previously determined in analyzed fly strains.

Sexy Mouth Odour? Male Oral Gland Pheromone in the Grain Beetle Parasitoid Lariophagus distinguendus (Förster) (Hymenoptera: Pteromalidae)

Throughout the animal kingdom, sexual pheromones are used for the attraction of mates and as courtship signals but also enable sexual isolation between species. In the parasitic wasp Lariophagus distinguendus, male courtship behaviour consisting of wing fanning, antennal stroking of the female antenna, and head nodding stimulates female receptivity leading to copulation. Recently L. distinguendus was reported to consist of two different lineages, which are sexually isolated because males fail to elicit receptivity in foreign females. It is unclear, however, which part of the courtship behaviour triggers female receptivity and therefore could be a mechanism causing sexual isolation. Here we show that in L. distinguendus a nonvolatile male oral pheromone is essential to release the female receptivity signal. In contrast, male wing fanning and antennal contact play a minor role. Additionally, the composition of the oral pheromone depends on the developmental host and females learn the composition upon emergence from the host substrate. These results will enable more detailed work on oral sexual pheromones to answer the question of how they are involved in the speciation process of L. distinguendus and other parasitoid species, for a better understanding of the huge biodiversity in this group.

Female butterflies adapt and allocate their progeny to the host-plant quality of their own larval experience

Recent studies with diverse taxa have shown that parents can utilize their experience of the environment to adapt their offspring's phenotype to the same environmental conditions. Thus, offspring would then perform best under environmental conditions experienced by their parents due to transgenerational phenotypic plasticity. Such an effect has been dubbed transgenerational acclimatization. However, evidence that parents can subsequently ensure the appropriate environmental conditions in order that offspring benefit from transgenerational acclimatization has never been demonstrated. We reared Pieris rapae larvae in the parental generation on high-nitrogen and low-nitrogen host plants, and reared the offspring (F1) of both treatments again on high- and low-nitrogen plants. Furthermore, we tested if females prefer to oviposit on high- or low-nitrogen host plants in two-way choice tests. We here show not only that females adapt their offspring's phenotype to the host-plant quality that they themselves experienced, but that females also mainly oviposit on the host quality to which they adapt their offspring. Moreover, effects of larval host plant on oviposition preference of females increased across two generations in F1-females acclimatized to low-nitrogen host plants, showing an adaptive host shift from one generation to the next. These findings may have profound implications for host-race formation and sympatric speciation.

Host-associated differentiation in a highly polyphagous, sexually reproducing insect herbivore

Insect herbivores may undergo genetic divergence on their host plants through host-associated differentiation (HAD). Much of what we know about HAD involves insect species with narrow host ranges (i.e., specialists) that spend part or all their life cycle inside their hosts, and/or reproduce asexually (e.g., parthenogenetic insects), all of which are thought to facilitate HAD. However, sexually reproducing polyphagous insects can also exhibit HAD. Few sexually reproducing insects have been tested for HAD, and when they have insects from only a handful of potential host-plant populations have been tested, making it difficult to predict how common HAD is when one considers the entire species’ host range. This question is particularly relevant when considering insect pests, as host-associated populations may differ in traits relevant to their control. Here, we tested for HAD in a cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) pest, the cotton fleahopper (CFH) (Pseudatomoscelis seriatus), a sexually reproducing, highly polyphagous hemipteran insect. A previous study detected one incidence of HAD among three of its host plants. We used Amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) markers to assess HAD in CFH collected from an expanded array of 13 host-plant species belonging to seven families. Overall, four genetically distinct populations were found. One genetically distinct genotype was exclusively associated with one of the host-plant species while the other three were observed across more than one host-plant species. The relatively low degree of HAD in CFH compared to the pea aphid, another hemipteran insect, stresses the likely importance of sexual recombination as a factor increasing the likelihood of HAD.

Phenotypic plasticity in a willow leaf beetle depends on host plant species: release and recognition of beetle odors

Aggregation behavior of herbivorous insects is mediated by a wide range of biotic and abiotic factors. It has been suggested that aggregation behavior of the blue willow leaf beetle Phratora vulgatissima is mediated by both host plant odor and by odor released by the beetles. Previous studies show that the beetles respond to plant odors according to their prior host plant experiences. Here, we analyzed the effect of the host plant species on odor released and perceived by adult P. vulgatissima. The major difference between the odor of beetles feeding on salicin-rich and salicin-poor host plants was the presence of salicylaldehyde in the odor of the former, where both males and females released this compound. Electrophysiological studies showed that the intensity of responses to single components of odor released by beetles was sex specific and dependent on the host plant species with which the beetles were fed. Finally, behavioral studies revealed that males feeding on salicin-rich willows were attracted by salicylaldehyde, whereas females did not respond behaviorally to this compound, despite showing clear antennal responses to it. Finally, the ecological relevance of the influence of a host plant species on the plasticity of beetle odor chemistry, perception, and behavior is discussed.

The effect of dietary fatty acids on the cuticular hydrocarbon phenotype of an herbivorous insect and consequences for mate recognition

The cuticular hydrocarbon (CHC) profile of the mustard leaf beetle Phaedon cochleariae is known to mediate mate recognition and is dependent on food plant species; beetles previously were shown to prefer mates that fed on the same plant species and which have a similar CHC pattern. In order to elucidate whether the pattern of ingested fatty acids affects the CHC pattern of P. cochleariae adults, we fed beetles: (a) with two different host plant species differing in fatty acid profile; and (b) artificial diets differing mainly in their composition of mono-, di-, and triunsaturated fatty acids. Analyses of the beetles' CHCs revealed that ingestion of different fatty acid blends results in quantitative effects on the beetle's straight-chain and methyl-branched CHCs. Interestingly, CHC patterns of males and females were affected differently by ingestion of fatty acids. In contrast to the effect on mating caused by feeding on different host plant species, beetles that were fed with different artificial diets, leading to different beetle CHC profiles, did not exhibit mating preference. We suggest that the occurrence of CHC-dependent assortative mating in P. cochleariae does not depend on the dietary fatty acids offered to the beetles in this study, but on other food constituents that affect CHC biosynthesis.

Male mate recognition via cuticular hydrocarbons facilitates sexual isolation between sympatric leaf beetle sister species

Chemical signals in insects have been documented to play an important role in mate recognition, and divergence in chemical signals can often cause sexual isolation between closely related species or populations within species. We investigated the role of cuticular hydrocarbons (CHCs), short distance chemical signals, in male mate recognition between the two sympatric elm leaf beetles, Pyrrhalta maculicollis and Pyrrhaltaaenescens. Mating experiments demonstrated that strong sexual isolation between the two species was driven by CHCs divergence. Males preferred to mate with conspecific females with intact conspecific CHCs or conspecific CHCs reapplied after removal. Males also preferred heterospecific females that were treated with conspecific CHCs. Chemical analysis showed that the CHC profiles differ significantly between species. In P. maculicollis dimethyl-branched alkanes between C29 and C35 account for the majority of the saturated alkanes while the CHC profile of P. aenescens mostly consisted of monomethyl-branched alkanes between C22 and C29. Additionally, some compounds, such as 12,18-diMeC32, 12,18-diMeC34, are unique to P. maculicollis.