Factors Releasing the Copulation Attempt in Three Species of Phycitidae (Lepidoptera : Phycitidae)

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Abstract
Factors releasing the copulation attempt in 3 phycitid moths, the Indian meal moth Plodia interpunctella, the almond moth Cadra cautella and the Mediterranean flour moth Anagasta kuehniella, were examined by using various kinds of models, including dried whole bodies, rolls of paper covered with scales and flat surfaces covered with wings, in the presence of the sex pheromone. The presence of the scales was a releaser for the copulation attempt in phycitid moths. The geometric configuration of the objects was also important. Behavior of the copulation attempt did not play a role in reproductive isolation among the 3 spp. of Phycitidae.