Sexual dimorphism, mating systems, and nuptial gifts in two Asian fireflies (Coleoptera: Lampyridae)

Many insect taxa show conspicuous sexual dimorphism in which females lack functional wings and are therefore incapable of flight. In fireflies, this loss of female flight is correlated with male production of spermatophore nuptial gifts, with species with flightless females also lacking gift production. In this study we further examined the relationship between sexual dimorphism and nuptial gifts by examining the reproductive ecology of two Asian fireflies, the sexually monomorphic Aquatica ficta (Luciolinae) and dimorphic Pyrocoelia pectoralis (Lampyrinae). We describe the reproductive anatomy of P. pectoralis males and females, and the time course of A. ficta spermatophore transfer. Through a series of mating experiments, we determined the effect of the number of matings on female fecundity, egg hatching success and female lifespan. The spermatophore-producing A. ficta was found to be monandrous, and female lifespan doubled as a result of that single mating. P. pectoralis was found to lack spermatophores but females were polyandrous and fecundity and egg hatching success both increased with additional matings. These results contradict patterns known from North American firefly species and provide insight into the role of male-derived substances in mating systems.

Sexual dimorphism in adult Chinese fireflies. A. Male Aquatica ficta; B. Female A. ficta; C. Male Pyrocoelia pectoralis; D. Female P. pectoralis. These fireflies exhibit major differences in reproductive physiology and ecology.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► We describe the time course of spermatophore transfer in Aquatica ficta.
► We describe the reproductive anatomy of Pyrocoelia pectoralis males and females.
► Female fecundity and hatching success increased with more matings in P. pectoralis.
► A single mating doubled female lifespan in A. ficta.