Effects of early-life protein starvation on longevity and sexual performance of male medfly

Using a well-established model species for demographic, behavioural and aging research, the Mediterranean fruit fly (Ceratitis capitata), we explored whether nutritional stress early in adult life affects the sexual performance and survival in older ages. To do so we established two different protein starvation (PS) protocols that included the elimination of proteinaceous diet either before or after sexual maturity of male medflies. The frequency of sexual signalling and the age of death were daily recorded. Sexual signalling is directly related with male mating success in this model system. PS early in adult life results in high mortality rates (similar to sugar-only fed males), which are gradually restored in more advanced ages. Provision of a proteinaceous diet following early-life PS increases straightaway male sexual signalling to levels similar with those having continuous access to proteinaceous diet. Switching diet regimes from a protein-free to a protein-rich one progressively compensates mortality rates. Apparently, males prioritize sexual signalling over lifespan. PS after attaining sexual maturity significantly reduces both longevity and sexual performance. Access to protein only early in life is insufficient to support lifetime energy-consuming behaviours such as sexual signalling. Continuous access to a proteinaceous diet determines both lifetime sexual performance and longevity. Early in life PS males prioritize the allocation of nutritional elements, when available, in sexual activities over soma-maintenance.