ABSTRACT
The fruit fly Ceratitis capitata (Wiedemann) (Diptera: Tephritidae) is an agricultural pest that causes considerable damage to fruit production areas. This species is widely reared in laboratories and insect production facilities under controlled conditions. However, rearing for many generations can cause deleterious changes in the behavioral traits of laboratory-reared flies. This study investigated the effects of laboratory rearing on the sexual behavior of C. capitata. Experimental assays were conducted to compare the temporal pattern of pheromone emission (calling behavior), courtship behavior, and mating success between laboratory-reared and wild males. The results indicated a similar pattern of calling behavior between populations, but the average number of males calling varied significantly according to time. Laboratory-reared males did not lose any courtship behaviors displayed by wild males, but quantitative differences were observed. Laboratory males displayed fewer behavioral units during courtship, a lower frequency of behaviors associated with body movements or positions (Mobile, Flying, Stationary), and a higher frequency of Calling and Reorientation. In the mate choice experiments, laboratory-reared males showed greater mating success. Although laboratory rearing quantitatively affected some parameters of C. capitata sexual behavior, this study suggests that relaxed conditions in the rearing environment could be important for preserving the courtship behavioral quality.
