Apparent Lesbianism in Beetle Actually May Be Ruse to Lure Males, Scientists Say

The apparent lesbianism displayed by the beetle Diaprepes abbreviatus is actually a ruse intended to lure nearsighted males into mating, according to researchers from Israel and Florida. Males and females of the species are virtually identical in appearance, but the females are slightly larger. Males are attracted by the scent of females, but often have difficulty discriminating between males and females.

One strategy adopted by the males, the team reports in today’s Nature, is to mount the largest object around, usually a mating couple, on the principle that at least one is female. By feigning lesbianism, the females ensure that at least one of them will be able to mate.

*

Compiled by Times medical writer Thomas H. Maugh II