ABSTRACT
In this chapter, the authors explore the question of body size in swarming insects and show how new evidence puts a different light on topics such as the evolution of landmark swarming, the role of landmarks and of social interactions in swarm formation. They show that an individual's body size is important in determining his success in the swarm and, as with any other group of animals, what everybody else is doing has consequences for the individual as well. There is sufficient evidence about sensory physiology in the Diptera at least for a reasonable understanding of how swarms are formed and how they attract females. Leks are peculiar mating systems and, despite being widespread, they do not constitute a common way for animals to acquire mates. The mating success and fitness of males of all swarming insects thus far studied is found to be strongly influenced by size.
