Drosophila bipectinata is a member of the bipectinata species complex of the ananassae subgroup of the melanogaster species group. This species commonly occurs in India. During the course of present study, courtship time, duration of copulation, and fertility were tested in seven wild laboratory stocks of D. bipectinata originating from different localities in India. The results show that there is significant variation among the strains tested with respect to courtship time, duration of copulation, and fertility. The strains showing a longer duration of copulation produce more progeny. These findings provide evidence that there is a positive correlaton between duration of copulation and fertility in D. bipectinata.
Wild strains, Sexual behavior, Postmating fitness
