Differential effects of experience on feeding and ovipositing preferences of a polyphagous leafminer

Abstract

Host preferences of phytophagous insects, although generally showing a strong hereditary component, can be modified by experience. Here we aim to elucidate the relative roles of larval and adult experience on host plant selection by Liriomyza huidobrensis (Blanchard) (Diptera: Agromyzidae), a widely distributed pest on ornamentals and vegetables. Laboratory and field experiments evaluating feeding and oviposition preferences of L. huidobrensis females with larval, adult, or larva plus adult experience on either Vicia faba L. (Fabaceae) or Beta vulgaris var. cicla L. (Chenopodiaceae) were performed. Also, we measured offspring performance of L. huidobrensis on both host plant species. Our results show that L. huidobrensis females strongly preferred V. faba over B. vulgaris var. cicla for feeding and egg laying. Only larval and adult experience acting in concert modified feeding behaviour, whereas oviposition preferences remained unaltered regardless of female previous experience. Offspring performance was higher on the preferred host (V. faba), indicating a preference–performance linkage for this leafminer. Experience on B. vulgaris var. cicla could not overcome oviposition preferences, which appear driven by fitness benefits for offspring.