Reproductive attributes evaluation of Tuta absoluta (Meyrick, 1917) (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae), with a focus on females’ preference and males’ quality

Abstract

Tuta absoluta (Meyrick, 1917), one of the main threats to tomato crops, results in significant economic damages despite employing the existing control techniques, such as pheromone traps. The persistent economic losses may be associated with the reproductive behavior of this species. Thus, this study aimed to comprehend the reproductive behavior of T. absoluta, exploring the influence of male quality characteristics, taking into account age, weight, and mating status, on female choices and how these choices and multiple mating impact key reproductive parameters, including oviposition, fertility, and longevity. The results highlight the clear preference of females for males with superior reproductive quality, specifically young, virgin, and heavier individuals. Remarkably, male quality, especially in terms of weight, demonstrated a correlation with increased female longevity, although it did not significantly influence sperm quality. Surprisingly, a higher quantity of eupyrene sperm was observed in males from natural environments. Additionally, the study revealed that multiple mating does not exert a significant impact on oviposition, fertility, or longevity in females of T. absoluta. The combined analysis of these studies suggests that the effect of male quality may operate more subtly concerning female choices and multiple mating on reproductive parameters. These benefits may operate through indirect mechanisms and genetic effects on offspring fitness. The complexity of these phenomena underscores the ongoing need for research to better understand the long-term impacts on the population dynamics and evolution of the reproductive behavior of the species.