| The Caribbean fruit fly, Anastrepha suspensa (Loew), like many polyphagous tephritids (Diptera: Tephritidae), adopts a lek polygyny mating system. The success of sterile insect technique (SIT) directed towards this pest requires the release of males that can compete with wild males and attract wild females. Mass-reared males must form leks, engage in male-male agonistic interactions, court females, and mate to transfer sterile sperm. The effects of application of a juvenile hormone analog, methoprene, and dietary protein on male Caribbean fruit fly sexual success were evaluated in the four possible combinations of the two factors (methoprene application and protein supply (M+P+); methoprene application and no protein supply (M+P-); no methoprene application and protein supply (M-P+); and no application of methoprene or protein supply (M-P-). Laboratory, field cage, and greenhouse experiments compared male sexual performance and other reproductive parameters on a lifetime and daily basis. Numbers of copulations, lek initiation, lek participation, pheromone signaling (calling), and female attraction were all significantly greater in M+P + males. Simultaneously, methoprene caused earlier male maturation. Sexual interactions, both intrasexual and intersexual (resource expenditure), and protein consumption (resource availability) resulted in significant reductions and increases, respectively, in male longevity. No impact of methoprene on survival was observed. A protein-rich diet increased the weight, total lipid content and total protein content of males during the first 35 days of adult life. No impact of methoprene on nutritional status was observed. The substantial improvement in male sexual performance due to the methoprene application, protein supply, and interaction of methoprene and protein, and an earlier sexual maturation due to methoprene application have the potential to produce more efficacious sterile males for SIT programs. |
