Effect of developmental time on the cowpea weevil Callosobruchus maculatus adult longevity and mating behaviors

This study investigated the effect of pre-maturity developmental time on adult longevity and mating behaviors of the cowpea weevil, Callosobruchus maculatus (Coleoptera: Bruchidae). Eggs of the same age and one-day-old virgin adult insects were used for the experiments. Longevity of adult insects associated with each developmental time, the number of eggs and hatching percentage, besides mating-related parameters, including mating success rate, males rejection rate, mating reluctance males, mating latency, onset time, and duration of kicking by the females and mating duration were recorded. The results showed that the length of the developmental time did not significantly affect the longevity of the female insects but showed a significant effect on the longevity of the male individuals. Male insects with a very short or very long developmental time had a shorter lifespan compared to the male insects that appeared in the middle of the period (with a medium developmental time). Male insects with longer developmental time had less ability to succeed against female insect resistance and eventually mating success. Copulation duration was also affected by the insect's developmental time length. In general, the cowpea weevil's developmental time directly impacts the longevity of adult insects, and their mating behaviors. In addition, attention to this issue is important in selecting insects for different experiments. It can play a significant role in reducing experimental errors.