Login | Register

Larval performance, adult reproductive traits and pattern of feeding of the forest tent caterpillar (Malacosoma disstria) on artificial and natural diets

Title:

Larval performance, adult reproductive traits and pattern of feeding of the forest tent caterpillar (Malacosoma disstria) on artificial and natural diets

Colasurdo, Nadia (2006) Larval performance, adult reproductive traits and pattern of feeding of the forest tent caterpillar (Malacosoma disstria) on artificial and natural diets. Masters thesis, Concordia University.

[thumbnail of MR20722.pdf]
Preview
Text (application/pdf)
MR20722.pdf - Accepted Version
4MB

Abstract

Forest tent caterpillars are an outbreaking forest pest native to North America, whose population cycles have been linked to variations in larval survivorship, adult fecundity and nutrition. These insects only feed as larvae, therefore the acquisition of appropriate nutrients during the larval stage for survival and reproduction of adults is essential. The present work focuses on the nutritional performance and behaviour of this caterpillar based on diets of varying nutritional quality: their preferred tree host (aspen), or artificial food. Caterpillars performed best on their preferred food source. Protein deficiency did have negative fitness consequences, both in larval survivorship, and quality of offspring. Adult body composition was regulated despite variation in food nutrient ratios. Feeding patterns demonstrated that on diets high in protein content, feeding bouts and pauses between feedings were longer than on low protein diets, on which the caterpillars were more active. This difference might be related to post-ingestive effects via haemolymph trehalose levels. There was no difference in the total time spent feeding or in exploratory behaviour between the artificial diets. When faced with aspen, the caterpillars were also active, had short feeding durations and interfeed pauses. Caterpillars on aspen were more likely to leave the trail and discover a new food source, and they preferred balanced artificial diet to aspen foliage. It is suggested that forest tent caterpillars are inefficient at making initial choices, but in the long run they are capable of post-ingestively regulating their body content.

Divisions:Concordia University > Faculty of Arts and Science > Biology
Item Type:Thesis (Masters)
Authors:Colasurdo, Nadia
Pagination:xiii leaves : ill. ; 29 cm.
Institution:Concordia University
Degree Name:M. Sc.
Program:Biology
Date:2006
Thesis Supervisor(s):Despland, Emma
Identification Number:LE 3 C66B56M 2006 C65
ID Code:9047
Deposited By: Concordia University Library
Deposited On:18 Aug 2011 18:43
Last Modified:13 Jul 2020 20:05
Related URLs:
All items in Spectrum are protected by copyright, with all rights reserved. The use of items is governed by Spectrum's terms of access.

Repository Staff Only: item control page

Downloads per month over past year

Research related to the current document (at the CORE website)
- Research related to the current document (at the CORE website)
Back to top Back to top