Sexually transmitted chemical defense in a moth (Utetheisa ornatrix).

A González, C Rossini, M Eisner, T Eisner
Author Information
  1. A González: Section of Neurobiology and Behavior, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA.

Abstract

The arctiid moth Utetheisa ornatrix is protected against predation by pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PA) that it sequesters as a larva from its food plant. Earlier work had shown that males transmit PA to the female with the sperm package and that the female bestows part of this gift on the eggs, protecting these against predation as a result. We now show that the female herself derives protection from the gift. Females deficient in PA are vulnerable to predation from spiders (Lycosa ceratiola and Nephila clavipes). If mated with a PA-laden male, the females become unacceptable as prey. The effect takes hold promptly and endures; females are unacceptable to spiders virtually from the moment they uncouple from the male and remain unacceptable as they age. Chemical data showed that the female allocates the received PA quickly to all body parts. We predict that other instances will be found of female insects being rendered invulnerable by receipt of sexually transmitted chemicals.

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Grants

  1. R01 AI002908/NIAID NIH HHS
  2. AI02908/NIAID NIH HHS

MeSH Term

Animal Feed
Animals
Escape Reaction
Female
Larva
Male
Molecular Structure
Monocrotaline
Moths
Pyrrolizidine Alkaloids
Reproduction
Spiders

Chemicals

Pyrrolizidine Alkaloids
Monocrotaline
retrorsine

Word Cloud

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