Stridulation of Green Hairstreak pupae

[Trev Sawyer]

Having read that Green Hairstreak pupae are able to produce noises to appease/attract ants which are audible to the unaided human ear, I decided to try to photograph the part of the pupal case they use to do this... Never having seen a pupa before, I was surprised at just how obvious the flexible joint between the abdominal segments they use is when compared to the other joints (see second photo). Looking even closer (photo 3), the ridges on the inner surface of the joint - which make it look like a breaking wave - and the lumps on the opposite side that they rub together to make the noise are just about visible. NB: I have not yet heard the noise they make myself, but will definitely report back if I do.

NB: Click on images to enlarge

[Trev Sawyer]

Yeayyy! I have managed to hear (and record) the sound that these pupae make. Just amazing.
Here is the video

https://youtu.be/keD1xwFAPXc

[Pete Eeles]

Superb - well done, Trev!

Cheers,

- Pete

[IAC]

Outrageous research Trev! Very well done indeed. I wonder what that sound recording would do if played in the field at ground level with Ants around? The reaction might be very interesting.

[Trev Sawyer]

Before you try Iain, please note that I accept no responsibility if the ants run off with your mobile phone and bury it

[IAC]

Nothing surprises me much these days Trev.