Oocyte resorption in Scarabaeinae (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae): A review

A synthesis of research that has been conducted on resorption in the ovary in Scarabaeinae is provided. In the Scarabaeinae, resorption in the ovarioles is correlated with the complexity and efficiency of nesting behavior. The phenomenon can occur in different ways and to different degrees, depending on physiological, behavioral and ecological conditions. Studies done to date (including cases with and without parental care of progeny) are reviewed. Resorption in the ovary is correlated with rate of oviposition, existence of suboptimal conditions, age of the female and degree of parental care. A table of the taxa discussed is provided.