MATING BEHAVIOR OF THE GLASSY-WINGED SHARPSHOOTER, HOMALODISCA COAGULATA

• Author(s): Hunt, Randy; Purcell, Alexander; Redak, Richard;
• Abstract: Mating behavior in leafhoppers is mediated by vibrational signals transmitted through plants (Claridge and de Vrijer 1994). Leafhopper calls are species-specific and have proven useful in resolving taxonomic problems. Furthermore, analysis of intra- and interspecific variation in male calls has provided clues about speciation processes. However, little is known about mate-finding tactics at the habitat level or the specific cues used by males to locate females after mate recognition. Theoretical and some experimental research on leafhoppers and planthoppers clearly indicates that seasonal patterns of abundance and dispersal are intimately linked to a species mating system (Ott 1993). Thus, determining rules that govern mating behavior may ultimately contribute an understanding of population and community level processes. Also, the application of basic knowledge of leafhopper mating behavior to an applied problem such as developing a novel monitoring device for the glassy-winged sharpshooter is virtually unexplored.
• Publication Date: Dec 2002
• Journal: 2002 Pierce's Disease Research Symposium