Characterization of the Post-Mating Responses of Drosophila hydei, a species that lacks Sex-Peptide.

Abstract

Female post-mating responses (PMRs) in Drosophila melanogaster rely on proteins made by the male that are transferred to the female upon mating to modify her behavior and physiology. Many of the most characterized responses are initiated by a single protein produced by the male accessory gland called the Sex Peptide (SP). Yet many Drosophila species, even those living in similar environments, do not have SP. As PMRs are thought to be mechanisms used to maximize reproductive success, we wondered if PMRs are similar in species living in the same environment and how PMRs might be achieved in species that lack SP. Here, we investigate the post-mating responses of D. hydei. D. hydei is a Drosophilid that lacks SP, but is often found cohabitating with D. melanogaster. We show that the PMR in D. hydei is markedly different from that found in D. melanogaster; D. hydei do not increase egg production, nor do they limit remating to additional males or change their diet after mating. Instead, hydei seem to display only subtle PMRs related to activity patterns, in a way distinct from those characterized in D. melanogaster. These changes seem to have impacted things like lifespan and sperm selection, and demonstrate the wide variety of choices that species can make and be successful in a given environment.