Effect of Within-Leaf Density and Leaf Size on Pupal Weight of a Leaf-Miner, Cameraria (Lepidoptera: Gracillariidae)

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Abstract
We recorded area of mined leaves and mines and pupal weight of a facultative communal leaf miner, Cameraria, on Emory oak in central Arizona [USA]. Pupae from doubly-mined leaves with separate mines were significantly heavier than pupae with merged mines (communal) and pupae that occurred alone on leaves. Leaf area and mine area were also positively correlated, but only in singly-minded leaves. Our results show that leaf size and within-leaf density both have important implications for weight attained at pupation. Eggs oviposited on small leaves are at a competitive disadvantage to those on large leaves. We suggest energy and time constraints on females prohibit them from selecting only large leaves for oviposition.

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