PhD in Sustainable development and cooperation

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Supervisor

Curriculum vitae

Phd thesis

The Effects of Heatwaves on Reproduction: Insights from Temperate and Tropical Insects

Climate change is not only raising global average temperatures but is also increasing the frequency of extreme events like heatwaves. These heatwaves pose significant threats to all animals, especially insects, which are short-lived, ectothermic, and generally have limited movement capacities. While the lethal effects of high temperatures and critical thermal limits are well-documented, my research focuses on the non-lethal effects of temperature on insects. Understanding these effects is crucial for predicting future insect distributions, as it is not only the critical temperatures that matter but also the conditions under which insects can continue to reproduce.

My research aims to answer the question, "How do heatwaves affect reproduction in insects?" To explore this, I conduct experiments on two cricket species, Gryllus bimaculatus and Acheta domesticus, from two populations: Italy and Madagascar. Studying the same species from Madagascar provides valuable insights into how tropical and island species respond to heatwaves compared to their temperate conspecifics.

Crickets exhibit a variety of reproductive behaviors, such as singing, fighting, and guarding. I will assess reproductive success not only by analyzing sperm and egg quality but also by examining song structure and mating success. This comprehensive approach will help us understand the broader impacts of heatwaves on insect reproduction.