The general biology and phenology of swarming in the East African tettigoniidRuspolia differens(Serville) (Orthoptera)

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
Summary (1) The taxonomic status of Homorocoryphus nitidulus vicinus Walker is restated following the revision of this genus (Bailey, 1975). (2) R. differens is sympatric with at least two other species in the area studied in this work, notably R. flavovirens and R. fuscopunctata. (3) Courtship is primarily based on song. The role of the song in courtship and swarm formation is discussed. (4) Oviposition is in the haulms of grasses and it is considered that the oviposition site of this species has a direct bearing on the synchrony of development and eventual synchrony of swarming. It is suggested that the development of the grass is linked with the development of R. differens. (5) The development of R. differens from anatrepsis is discussed in relation to the availability of water and the expected times of the ‘first rain’ and the emergence of the first instar. Eclosion tends to be synchronous. (6) The relationship between the fat reserves of R. differens and its total flight activity is discussed; compar...