Diurnal mating behaviour of aNisitrussp. cricket (Orthoptera: Gryllidae) from Sumatra

Abstract

The sexual behaviour of a diurnally active cricket in the genus Nisitrus is described from observations made in its natural habitat. Courtship consists of both auditory and visual elements. The male transfers up to five spermatophores to an individual female during a single reproductive sequence lasting more than 3 h. Males guard females during the intervals between successive production of spermatophores. The visual signal-one or more hind-leg waves-given by the male to indicate to the female that she can eat the old spermatophore, and that a new one is now ready, appears to be unique among gryllids studied so far. Females are very co-operative, as they stand to receive and then eat as many as five spermatophores in relatively quick succession. Inter-male rivalry does not occur in the absence of females, but possible 'spoiling' behaviour may occasionally interrupt mating sequences.