Obligatory diapause

Pronunciation
/OB-lih-guh-tor-ee dee-uh-PAWS/
Category
Behavior
Plural
Obligatory diapauses

Definition

A type of diapause where insects are genetically programmed to enter a state of arrested development at a specific point in their life cycle, regardless of environmental conditions.

Etymology

From Latin 'obligare', meaning 'to bind' or 'to obligate', and 'diapause', referring to the state of arrested development.

Example

The winter eggs of the Colorado potato beetle exhibit obligatory diapause, ensuring survival through harsh winters.

Related Terms

  • Diapause
  • Photoperiodic diapause
  • Facultative diapause

Usage Notes

Obligatory diapause is often triggered by specific developmental cues rather than environmental factors.