Mating behaviour, spermatophore structure, ecology and systematics of the Cicindela splendida group (Coleoptera: Cicindelidae)

Abstract

Observations of copulating pairs of conspecific and interspecific individuals of Cicindela splendida Hentz and Cicindela limbalis Klug revealed behaviour similar to that previously described for Pseudoxych.ila tarsalis Bates, and for five species of Cicindela including C. limbalis. Differences in behaviour of both species studied here compared to previous studies included: absence of a distinct phase 3 in copulation; ejection of the spermatophore by the female immediately after the aedeagus was withdrawn; repeated copulation with increased intercopulatory intervals and smaller spermatophores; and contact guarding by the male during time spans ranging from 6 to 10 hours in length. The spermatophore consisted of a two-chambered capsule, the outer surface of both being rippled and cratered. The smaller capsule, referred to here as the lateral capsule, contained a mass of sperm cells and other cellular material. Although the lumen of the large capsule appeared empty in examination the presence of a few suspended cells suggested that it was probably fluid filled. The rapid transfer of the spermatophore and the details of its complex structure suggested that the male carried a pre-made spermatophore which probably formed within a field of spines and was moulded around one of the sclerites of the internal sac. (see document for full abstract)