Dataset and analysis scripts on larval growth, reproduction, and senescence in Tenebrio molitor

This repository contains the experimental data and analysis scripts associated with the manuscript: “Fast early-life growth accelerates reproductive ageing without shortening lifespan in a beetle” The dataset contains experimental data on larval growth, pupation, adult female reproductive performance, and lifespan in the mealworm beetle (Tenebrio molitor). Data were collected to investigate the effects of genetic variation in growth on adult life-history traits, including reproductive investment and senescence. Content Experimental data Larval growth and development: pupal mass, growth duration, and calculated growth rate. Adult traits: sex, adult mass at eclosion, post-reproductive mass, and longevity. Reproductive performance: egg counts during early (R1; days 10–20 post-eclosion) and late (R2; days 40–50 post-eclosion) reproductive periods. Derived life-history metrics: reproductive senescence index (RSI) and post-reproductive mass loss ratio (Mlr). Analysis scripts The repository also contains the R analysis scripts used for: data preparation and processing; statistical analyses reported in the manuscript; estimation of among-line variance components and correlations; reproductive and actuarial senescence analyses; generation of figures and tables. Experimental design 17 inbred lines and a reference outbred stock were used. Larvae were isolated and monitored individually under standard laboratory conditions (24 ± 2°C, 70% RH, permanent darkness). Reproductive performance was measured with standardized mating protocols to control for egg-laying dates and larval density. Only females were analyzed for reproductive traits. Data file Excel file containing raw measurements and derived variables (TenebrioMolitor_InbredLines_Growth_Reproduction_Senescence_Data.xlsx). README sheet describing variables, and units. R analysis script (Growth_vs_senescence_with_inbred_females.Rmd). Usage notes Units: pupal and adult mass in mg, growth duration in days, egg counts as integer numbers. Researchers can use this dataset to study life-history variation, senescence, and genetic effects on growth and reproduction in insects. Author contributions Aude Balourdet: Data collector Agathe Crosland.: Data collector, Data curator, Contact person Charlène Develay: Data collector Thierry Rigaud: Data collector Yannick Moret: Data collector, Contact person License CC-BY 4.0 (attribution required)