Author： RODEN D. B.
Publisher： Entomological Society of America
ISSN： 1938-2901
Source： Annals of the Entomological Society of America, Vol.86, Iss.3, 1993-05, pp. : 379-383
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Abstract
Based on laboratory observations and experiments, a larval behavior of gypsy moth, Lymantria dispar (L.), is documented that is used for climbing on a smooth vertical surface. Larvae on surfaces that do not provide structures that can be grasped by the crochets are able to climb vertically by spinning a “ladder of silk.” This use of silk apparently occurs more frequently in laboratory populations that are less fit (as measured by head capsule size, reduced pupal weight, and increased development time). It is suggested that the use of silk for climbing in the field may be associated with decreased larval fitness as a result of wound-induced plant defences.
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