Biochemical variants in the study of multiple insemination in Culex pipiens L. (Diptera, Culicidae)

Abstract

A new approach to the study of multiple insemination in mosquitoes or other organisms involving the use of electrophoretic enzyme variants is described. Data obtained on Culex pipiens L. with this technique confirm the basic monogamy of the species and suggest that multiple insemination may occur almost exclusively within 48 h after the first mating. Two independent mechanisms are probably acting in preventing multiple insemination. The first, probably the formation of a mucoid mating plug during the first copulation, allows the fertilisation of a further 10% of eggs by the second male in double inseminations; the second, the accessory gland pheromone (matrone), after an initial latent period, totally prevents a second insemination for the duration of the mosquito's life.