The Ecology of Callosobruchus analis (Coleoptera: Bruchidae): Energetics and Energy Reserves of the Adults

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Abstract
C. analis (F.) develops in legume seeds. The beetles emerge from the host seed to mate and oviposit without the need for water or further food. A description is given of the initial energy content (P) of newly emerged beetles and how it is allocated at 2 population densities, of 100 beetles per 100 or 1000 dwarf green peas. The metabolic processes accounted for approximately 55% of P at both densities, the high density beetles having a slightly higher metabolic rate. The eggs took 10% of P at the low density beetles and 5% of the high density beetles. The remainder of the initial energy remained in the cadavers. The energy content of newly emerged beetles was high at 7.17 cal mg-1 (29.99 J mg-1). This was related to their high initial lipid content of 47% (wt/wt). The low respiratory quotient (0.72) indicated that lipid was the major source of metabolic energy. The dry weight:live weight ratio remained constant at about 0.5. Water lost by transpiration was replaced by metabolic water. The lower reproductive rate of the high density beetles was caused by hyperactive behavior, noted in another experiment, diverting energy and materials from the ovogenetic processes. There is also a possibility that an accumulation of eggs in the oviducts of the high density female beetles was caused by interference with oviposition.