Differences in vibratory sound communication between a Slovenian and an Australian population of Nezara viridula (L.) (Heteroptera: Pentatomidae)

Sound communication, by means of substrate-borne vibrations, was recorded and analysed from a Slovenian and Australian population of the pentatomid landbug, Nezara viridula. Mate location and short-range courtship in N. viridula involves the recognition of such species-specific signals and responding appropriately to them. Temporal parameters of all N. viridula song types differed considerably between males and females of the two populations. In particular, the female calling song, which enables Slovenian male bugs to locate the female on a host plant, was significantly different. The song repertoire from a Slovenian and Australian population and the species status of N. viridula are discussed.