Expression of autogeny in relation to larval population density of Sarcophaga bullata Parker (Diptera: Sarcophagidae)

Abstract

The expression of autogeny in S. bullata was influenced by the larval rearing conditions. Low larval population densities resulted in large flies that were autogenous. On the other hand, high larval population densities produced small flies that were anautogenous, In anautogenous females the size and stage to which the follicles developed varied with the size of the fly. When reared on a sucrose–water diet, the females from an intermediate larval population density possessed larvae, mature eggs, degenerate follicles, or undeveloped follicles.