Egg maturation dynamics of Homalodisca vitripennis

The egg maturation dynamics of holometabolous insects are particularly well studied compared to those of hemimetabolous insects. The wealth of knowledge produced from studies on holometabolous insects has allowed researchers to test for correlations between egg maturation schedule and specific life-history characteristics and have allowed for investigation into the dynamic role of egg load on host acceptance. A key question is whether or not knowledge gained from studies on egg maturation dynamics of holometabolous insects applies to hemimetabolous insects. Results on egg maturation dynamics of a hemimetabolous insect, Homalodisca vitripennis (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae), will be reported. Specifically, results will be presented on: 1) timing of egg maturation relative to female emergence, 2) eggs maturation rates of field collected females, and 3) effects of host plant on egg maturation.