Official Journal of the Lepidopterists' Society of Africa
Metamorphosis Volume 7 (1996), Metamorphosis Volume 7, Issue 1: 12 - 16
Publication Date : 1996-03-31
Author/s : Mark C. Williams and John G. Joannou

Title :

Observations on the oviposition behaviour and larvae of Thestor basutus capeneri Dickson (Lycaenidae: Miletinae) in south Africa.

Abstract :

Oviposition and feeding behaviours of females, and larval behaviours, of Thestor basutus capeneri were studied in the field and the laboratory.  Females, in the field, laid eggs singly, and very rapidly, on a variety of plants.  Workers of Anoplolepis custodiens ants were invariably present at oviposition sites.  The cue for oviposition appeared to be ant-derived rather than homopteran- or plant-derived.  Females appeared not to be able to feed and were found to possess a rudimentary proboscis.  Larvae, in the first three instars, fed on coccids (Pulvinaria icyeri) that were infesting grass.  The coccids were invariably tended by workers of A. custodiens.  Fourth stage larvae, placed in formicaria containing A. custodiens ants, and pieces of grass infested with coccids, were not seen to feed on either ant brood or coccids.  The later larval instars of any species of Thestor appear to be undescribed.  The taxonomic status of T. basutus capeneri needs to be more thoroughly investigated.

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