The polymorphism of a lygaeid bugOxycarenus (Oxycarenus) multiformisSamy

Abstract

The new species Oxycarenus (Oxycarenus) multiformis Samy has been found to be a polymorphic species. Four colour forms have been found: red, banded, spotted and black. Breeding experiments under laboratory conditions have indicated that dominance is nearly complete in the order given and that the second generation is segregated in the 3:1 ratios. These colour forms have been given the taxonomic status of a single species on the basis of: (a) identical measurements of external characters, (b) similar morphological characters in the male genitalia, (c) equal fertility of each form, (d) free interbreeding, (e) random mating, (f) occupation of the same geographical regions, and (g) host plant relationship.