Plant abandonment behavior and fitness of monarch larvae (Danaus plexippus) is not influenced by an intraspecific competitor

Abstract Integrating aspects of larval lepidopteran behavior that enhance survival into conservation plans could increase the overall impact efforts. We previously recommended where possible, maintaining 2–4 ramets closely-spaced common milkweed would support development at least one monarch through pupation, based on a seemingly innate in which larvae ( Danaus plexippus ) abandon their natal ramet Asclepias sp.). Here, we explored intraspecific competition abandonment and fitness small artificial patches. observed reared under direct indirect competition, alone. found no influence competition; however, our study provides further is behavior. This occurs before all available leaf biomass consumed prior to pre-pupal wandering stage. Implications for insect conservation: Results from suggest absence predation, parasitism, interspecific when sufficient plant present development, presence an competitor does not or fitness. Based behavior, continue patches possible.