Effects of age at first mating on the reproductive potential of the fall armyworm (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)

The effect of age at first mating on the reproductive potential of the fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith), was studied in the laboratory. The age of females at first mating affected the number of eggs laid, percentage of eggs hatching, number of viable larvae, and longevity. Extending female virginity to an advanced age increased longevity. The age of males at first mating had relatively little influence on the reproductive potential of females. However, the age of the male and female at first mating interacted to affect the reproductive potential of respective pairs. The number of spermatophores harbored by females affected percent daily and total eggs hatching, number of eggs laid, and the number of viable larvae produced. The number of spermatophores harbored by females had no effect on moth longevity