Intraspecific interactions and their effect on habitat utilisation by the praying mantid Ciulfina biseriata (Mantodea: Liturgusidae)

Abstract

Tree trunks are spatially separated habitat patches for the tree-running mantid Ciulfina biseriata (Mantodea: Liturgusidae). This paper investigates how intraspecific interactions may affect spacing patterns in C. biseriata. Many mantid species inhabit tree trunk surfaces, but little is known about how they interact with this type of habitat. Behavioural observations and choice tests investigated the effect of a conspecific on habitat utilisation. Field surveys were used to investigate patterns of movement in the field. The decision to inhabit a tree trunk may be affected by the presence of a conspecific. Whereas adult males seek out females when selecting habitat, females will actively avoid males. Habitat choice decisions are primarily based on aspects of their mating system rather than on competition for space or food resources. The behavioural interactions of C. biseriata are described, including novel observations of same-sex mating behaviour in adult males.