Defensive Behaviours of Adult and Juvenile Cyphoderris monstrosa in Response to Human Touch

Abstract

Cyphoderris monstrosa is a species of hump-winged grig, which inhabits northwestern North America, and exhibit unique behaviours. This study explores some defensive behaviours which include backing up and flipping, and explores the influence of stage on these responses. Previously, little research has been done on the defensive behaviours of Cyphoderris species, specifically C. monstrosa. Collected from the southern Alberta and British Columbia border, 45 crickets were brought into the lab, and systematically prodded by a human index finger. The experiment was recorded, where the video was studied and responses were noted. Approximately 50% of the crickets received the glove treatment, and the other 50% received no glove treatment. The different treatments resulted in difference of frequency in behaviours as a response. Two main findings of this study included that when prodded with no glove, crickets were more likely to show defensive responses, and compared to adults, juveniles were more likely to flip. Defensive behaviours are influenced as a result of stage and treatment for C. monstrosa.

Discipline: Biological Sciences

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Karen Buro