Description

Abstract: The reproductive biology of Sitona hispidulus (F.) was examined over a 21-month period. Numbers of males and females did not differ significantly. Males and females of the new generation first appeared in late April and May. No eggs occurred in the oviducts of new generation adults before mid October. Both oviduct egg density and the percent of the female population containing oviducal eggs were negatively related to mean daily temperature and weevil collection date. Peak oviduct egg density occurred in March and April. Sperm Content in spermathecae was negatively related to mean daily temperature. Fall mating was first observed in mid October 1978, and mid September 1979. Sexual activity continued through winter until May. Ovipositional rate and egg reserve in the oviducts differed among three compared temperatures. Ovipositional date significantly affected these variables. Peaks in ovipositional activity and egg reserve occurred simultaneously from November to late April. Oviposition responded directly to oviduct egg presence. No oviposition occurred from mid-July to late September.