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Cryptocephalus sinaita moricei Pic, 1908 is a phytophagous leaf-beetle, whose adults and larvae feed on Tamarix shoots and leaves. After mating, the female oviposits and simultaneously covers each egg with dark anal secretion. Approximately half of the eggs are dropped beneath the tree, while the rest are adhered to the tree shoots. The larva constructs a case that apparently provides protection from natural enemies. Developmental duration from the egg to adult takes three months under laboratory conditions at 25 ± 2 °C. In contrast to most congeners, C. s. moricei larvae can survive only on fresh shoots and leaves but not on decaying ones. Accordingly, the ground-hatching larvae quickly locate a tree and climb up to the canopy to feed. When fully fed, the majority of larvae drop off the tree and pupate on the ground, whereas a minority pupate on the tree, attaching themselves to twigs. Life history strategies, particularly regarding oviposition, feeding and pupation, are discussed. |
