Oviposition behavior of the salt marsh greenhead, Tabanus simulans (Diptera: Tabanidae)

Publication Type:Journal Article
Year of Publication:1983
Authors:N. L. Graham, Stoffolano, Jr. J. G.
Journal:Annals of the Entomological Society of America
Volume:76
Pagination:703-706
Date Published:1983
Keywords:Massachusetts, Reproduction, Tabanidae, Tabanus simulans, USA
Abstract:

Females of Tabanus simulans Wlk. were observed ovipositing in a salt marsh in Massachusetts in 1979 and 1980 between 0900 and 1700 h from 6 June to 2 August; peak activity was between 1200 and 1300 h, and 70% of females oviposited between 1100 and 1400 h. Of 63 egg masses observed being deposited, 81% were laid on the short form of Spartina alterniflora in the low marsh, as compared with 19% on the tall form. No females deposited their eggs on S. patens or any other high-marsh vegetation. Given a choice in the laboratory of S. alterniflora, S. patens or Distichlis spicata, 98% of females oviposited on S. alterniflora.

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Scratchpads developed and conceived by (alphabetical): Ed Baker, Katherine Bouton Alice Heaton Dimitris Koureas, Laurence Livermore, Dave Roberts, Simon Rycroft, Ben Scott, Vince Smith