Evidence for Mate Choice in a Sulphur Butterfly (Colias eurytheme)

• DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0310.1985.tb00504.x
• Publication Date: 2010-08-28T19:48:03Z
• Authors: Ronald L. Rutowski
• Keywords: 0106 biological sciences; 01 natural sciences

Abstract and Summary Available information suggests that male alfalfa butterflies ( Colias eurytheme ) make a nutrient investment during copulation. Sexual selection theory predicts females, to maximize the material they receive, should preferentially mate with large, young, persistent males. In addition, males, return on their investment, are predicted large females. To test these predictions, observations were made interactions between lab‐reared virgin females males flying in field. About half of all ended Analysis revealed that: 1) young (fresh) more successful courtship than old (worn) 2) accepted by significantly less variable size rejected 3) persistence increases, up point, male's chances attaining copulation, 4) is These results support predictions part but leave unanswered questions about why exceptionally conspecific individuals unattractive members both sexes. Zusammenfassung Die Interaktionen noch unbesamter Weibchen von mit umherfliegenden Männchen lassen vermuten, daß beide Geschlechter der “Balz”‐Phase eine Partnerwahl treffen. paaren sich bevorzugt frischgeschlüpften mittlerer Größe, die das fliegende 7–10 s lang oder sitzende 4–5 umbalzen. Diese Alters‐und Größenbevorzugung zeigt auch an verpaarten — im Gegensatz zu einzeln gefangenen Männchen. bevorzugen mittelgroße Weibchen.