Sexual cannibalism in the praying mantid, Mantis religiosa: a field study
Abstract
The frequency of sexual cannibalism, mating behaviour and general biology of a wild population of the mantid, Mantis religiosa, were examined. Mating behaviour of wild mantids was similar to that of captive individuals: males were always 'cautious' towards females and performed no display in their precopula approach. Sexual cannibalism occurred in 31% of matings observed in the wild. Growth (weight gain/age) was restricted in wild females. Males were attracted more to heavier females which oviposited sooner after mating. The sex ratio became progressively female biased as the breeding season progressed and it is suggested that sexual cannibalism may have contributed to this bias.
- Publication:
-
Animal Behaviour
- Pub Date:
- 1992
- DOI:
- Bibcode:
- 1992AnBeh..43..569L