Temperature-mediated dynamics: Unravelling the impact of temperature on cuticular hydrocarbon profiles, mating behaviour, and life history traits in three Drosophila species

In a world grappling with climate change, understanding the enduring impact of changes in temperatures on insect adult traits is crucial. It is proposed that cold- and warm-adapted species exhibit specialized behavioural and physiological responses to their respective temperature ranges. In contrast, generalist species maintain more stable metabolic and developmental rates across a broader range of temperatures, reflecting their ability to exploit diverse thermal niches. Here, we explored this intricate response to temperature exposure in three <i>Drosophila</i> species: <i>Drosophila ezoana</i> originating in Arctic regions, <i>D. novamexicana</i> in arid, hot environments, and in the cosmopolitan species <i>D. virilis</i>. Rearing these flies at 15, 20, 25, and 30 °C revealed striking variations in their cuticular hydrocarbon (CHC) profiles, known to mediate mate recognition and prevent water loss in insects. The cold-adapted <i>D. ezoana</i> consistently exhibited reduced CHC levels with increasing temperatures, while the warm-adapted <i>D. novamexicana</i> and the cosmopolitan <i>D. virilis</i> displayed more nuanced responses. Additionally, we observed a significant influence of rearing temperature on the mating behaviour of these flies, where those reared at the extreme temperatures, 15 and 30 °C, exhibiting reduced mating success. Consequently, this led to a decrease in the production of adult offspring. Also, these adult offspring underwent notable alterations in life history traits, reaching adulthood more rapidly at 25 and 30 °C but with lower weight and reduced longevity. Furthermore, among these offspring, those produced by the cold-adapted <i>D. ezoana</i> were more vulnerable to desiccation and starvation than those from the warm-adapted <i>D. novamexicana</i> and the cosmopolitan <i>D. virilis</i>. In summary, our research demonstrates that <i>Drosophila</i> species from diverse ecological regions exhibit distinct responses to temperature changes, as evidenced by variations in CHC profiles, mating behaviours, fertility, and life history traits. This provides valuable insights into how environmental conditions shape the biology and ecology of insects.