Mating behaviour, mate choice, and reproduction in Tyrophagus curvipenis (Acari: Acaridae)

Mating behaviour and mate choice can influence reproductive output, but these aspects remain insufficiently studied in many mite species. This study investigated mating behaviour, mate choice, and the reproductive consequences of repeated mating in Tyrophagus curvipenis (Acari: Acaridae). First, we described the mating sequence and quantified the duration of pre-copulation latency and copulation duration. Mating involved initial contact, dorsal mounting, repositioning into a tail-to-tail copulatory position, and sperm transfer. Copulation lasted substantially longer than the pre-copulation latency. Second, we examined mate choice in relation to kinship. Neither males nor females showed a significant preference for siblings or unrelated partners. Third, we examined mate choice in relation to mating status. Males preferred virgin partners, whereas females showed no significant preference between virgin and previously mated partners. Copulation duration was shorter with previously mated partners, although the underlying cause remains unclear. Finally, we examined female reproductive performance under three mating-frequency treatments: one mate, two mates, and unlimited access to mates. Mating frequency did not affect the pre-oviposition period but significantly affected the oviposition period, daily oviposition rate, and total fecundity. Females with unlimited mating opportunities had the longest oviposition period and produced the most eggs. Among females that mated once, longer copulation was positively associated with both oviposition period and total fecundity. These findings characterise mating behaviour in T. curvipenis and show that mate choice and mating frequency are associated with different aspects of reproduction. Further work is needed to determine whether these patterns reflect differences in sperm transfer, fertilisation, or other effects of mating.