Presentation Details
| Spatial Learning in the Harvester Phalangium opilio using a T-Maze with an Aversive Stimulus Preston Foerder. University of Detroit Mercy, Detroit, Michigan, USA |
Abstract
Harvesters (Opilionidae), a.k.a. daddy longlegs, are often confused with another arachnid species, spiders. Even so, they have not received the same research focus on their cognitive and learning abilities. Research has shown that they are capable of chemosensory associative learning, habituation, and classical conditioning. In an ongoing research project, we are studying spatial navigation in the harvester species, Phalangium opilio, using a horizontal t-maze lined with citronella oil infused paper as an aversive stimulus. In pilot testing on different essential oils, we determined that citronella had the most aversive effect on P. opilio. To avoid the aversive stimulus, P. opilio must find a box without the stimulus placed at the end of either the right or left arm. Over multiple trials, we can determine if P. opilio can learn the correct route and remember the direction of the unscented goal box. In future research, we will use this method to investigate perception in the species by changing visual and tactile stimuli that indicates the proper route. We will also investigate cognition, learning, and perception in the harvester, Leiobunum vittatum, using vertical v-mazes.
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No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the author.
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