Effects of age and size on mating in Heliothis virescens (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae): Implications for resistance management

Abstract

Laboratory experiments were conducted to determine if individuals within populations of the tobacco budworm, Heliothis virescens (F.), mate randomly. Our results indicate that within 8-m3 arenas, large and small moths do not show assortative mating or preference for one size class over another. Within the same arenas, nonrandom mating did occur based on mating history coupled with age. Biologically, the most significant effect is that old, sexually experienced moths are less likely to mate than young, virgin moths. This difference in mating propensity is expected to increase the extent of nonrandom mating among early and late emerging moths in the same location. These results are discussed as they relate to Bacillus thuringiensis Berliner resistance management.