Laboratory studies and field observations were conducted to
ascertain the development of the female sex organs of the alfalfa
weevil during aestivation, to study the role of this aestivation
on sexual development, and to investigate the factors responsible
for this interaction.
Measurements of female sex organs were made in dissected weevils
at monthly intervals to observe each of the developmental stages of
sexual maturation. Results of this sexual development as it
progressed after adult emergence, were presented by means of tables,
graphs, and a series of photographs.
The importance of not confusing old and new weevils was recognized
in this work, since their behavioral patters differ in many respects.
The nature and physiology of the aestivation of this weevil was
discussed and evidence was presented to support the author's suggestion
that this aestivation is a "true diapause." It was demonstrated
in this paper that diapause synchronized the sexual growth of the
alfalfa weevil to the seasonal changes of the year for species adaptation
and survival.
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