Morphology of the Reproductive Systems and Mating in Two Representative Members of the Family Noctuidae, Pseudaletia Unipuncta and Peridroma Margaritosa, with Comparison to Heliothis Zea1

Abstract

The gross morphology of the reproductive system is described and illustrated for the male and female of Pseudaletia unipuncta (Haw.) and Peridroma margaritosa (Haw.), and comparisons are made with Heliothis zea (Boddie). Each of these species is a member of a separate subfamily, and their adults are, respectively, long-, medium-, and short-lived. The method of inserting the spermatophore is described, and both morphological and functional reproductive characteristics are compared and summarized. Mating percentages are given for feral populations.