Comparative analysis of overwintering physiology in nine species of semi-aquatic bugs (Heteroptera: Gerromorpha)

0362907 - BC 2012 RIV GB eng J - Journal Article
Ditrich, T. - Košťál, Vladimír
Comparative analysis of overwintering physiology in nine species of semi-aquatic bugs (Heteroptera: Gerromorpha).
Physiological Entomology. Roč. 36, č. 3 (2011), s. 261-270. ISSN 0307-6962. E-ISSN 1365-3032
R&D Projects: GA ČR GA206/07/0269
Institutional research plan: CEZ:AV0Z50070508
Keywords : cold tolerance * overwintering * risk-spreading
Subject RIV: ED - Physiology
Impact factor: 1.330, year: 2011

An analysis of the ecophysiological aspects of overwintering in nine gerromorphan species is presented. All nine species avoid ice formation by means of more or less extensive supercooling of their body fluids. There is a tight correlation between supercooling capacity and lower lethal temperature. The majority of species studied overwinter only as adults, whereas Velia caprai Tamanini, 1947 can overwinter either in the adult or egg stage. The supercooling capacity of V. caprai adults is insufficient to prevent the risk of lethal freezing. Winter survival in this species is assured by extensive supercooling and highly cold-tolerant overwintering eggs.
Permanent Link: http://hdl.handle.net/11104/0199080