Data from: Seasonal polyphenism of Spotted-wing Drosophila is affected by variation in local abiotic conditions within its invaded range, likely influencing survival and regional population dynamics

1. Overwintering Drosophila often display adaptive phenotypic differences beneficial for survival at low temperatures. However, it is unclear which morphological traits are the best estimators of abiotic conditions, how those traits are correlated with functional outcomes in cold tolerance, and whether there are regional differences in trait expression.

2. We used a combination of controlled laboratory assays, and collaborative field collections of invasive Drosophila suzukii in different areas of the United States, to study the factors affecting phenotype variability of this temperate fruit pest now found globally.

3. Lab studies demonstrated that WM trait expression is continuous within the developmental temperature niche of this species (10-25 °C) and that wing length and abdominal melanization are the best predictors of the larval abiotic environment.

4. However, the duration and timing of cold exposure also produced significant variation in development time, morphology, an...