Reproductive ecology of Trox mitis fujiokai (Coleoptera: Trogidae) under laboratory conditions

Abstract

We report the oviposition behavior, the time for the larvae to reach maturity, and the larval feeding behavior of Trox mitis fujiokai (Coleoptera: Trogidae) under laboratory conditions. A total of 89 eggs were obtained from seven females. The oviposition was continued 15.6±4.4 (mean±SD) days, and the number of eggs a day was 1.9±1.0. Eggs were separately laid in the soil (6.6±2.3 cm depth). The larvae hatched 10.1±0.4 days after oviposition. Hatched larvae moved to the ground surface and fed on chicken feathers. After feeding on a part of the feathers, each larva made a single tunnel, carried the uneaten feathers into the tunnel, and consumed them there. Mature larvae moved deeper into the soil and pupated (8.9±3.0 cm, N=3). Two adults emerged 11 days after pupating.