Fitness Tradeoffs Induced By Nymphal Diet and Annual Generations in Kudzu Bug (Hemiptera: Plataspidae)

The kudzu bug Megacopta cribraria (F.) (Hemiptera: Plataspidae) is a newly introduced agricultural pest of leguminous plants first seen in the American Southeast in 2009. In the United States it is bivoltine, with an initial emergent population leaving overwintering refugia in mid to late spring, usually adjacent to food sources. This is followed by two subsequent generational peaks over the summer and into early fall that feed on kudzu (Pueraria lobata) and subsequently agricultural legumes such as soybean (Glycine max). Here we examine the life history of each generation is examined in a controlled greenhouse setting through a combination of choice and no-choice experiments. Life history and fitness tradeoffs are quantified through the use of several techniques; including assay of fat bodies for triglyceride content, observation of host choice, observation of reproductive success and longevity, morphometric analysis, and migration potential as measured by the use of a novel flight mill apparatus. Results indicate significant differences among generations with regard to flight propensity, fecundity, and development time. Also of interest is a significant effect of nymphal diet on body size seen in lab raised first and second generation females.