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- Jun 27, 2010
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Just something I was wondering about.
As I understand it, the development of any given larva into either a minor or a major male is not genetic but is determined by the quality of nutrients/food during development, plus proximity to other larvae. Larvae with a less nutritious substrate/food source and/or larvae that are raised in crowded conditions are more likely to become minor males, while those raised in isolation and provided with higher quality food are more likely to become major males. Granted, the major males have an advantage over the minor males when it comes to competing for females - but the minor males do also manage to mate with the females. Because "minor" and "major" male is not genetically coded, it seems logical that the offspring of a minor male could still develop into a major male, given the right food and conditions.
Has any one had any experience with this? Thanks!
As I understand it, the development of any given larva into either a minor or a major male is not genetic but is determined by the quality of nutrients/food during development, plus proximity to other larvae. Larvae with a less nutritious substrate/food source and/or larvae that are raised in crowded conditions are more likely to become minor males, while those raised in isolation and provided with higher quality food are more likely to become major males. Granted, the major males have an advantage over the minor males when it comes to competing for females - but the minor males do also manage to mate with the females. Because "minor" and "major" male is not genetically coded, it seems logical that the offspring of a minor male could still develop into a major male, given the right food and conditions.
Has any one had any experience with this? Thanks!
