Presentation Details
Behavioral Response of Gryllus pennsylvanicus to Predator and Non-predator Acoustic Stimuli

Piper K.Zander, Ned A.Dochtermann.

North Dakota State University, Fargo, North Dakota, USA

Abstract


The ability of prey to eavesdrop on predator vocalizations increases survival by reducing detection and capture. Unfortunately, little is known about the ability of invertebrates to eavesdrop on predator vocalizations. We measured latency to emerge, overall activity, and shelter visits in wild-caught fall field crickets (Gryllus pennsylvanicus) in response to acoustic playback. Stimuli included multiple predator vocalizations, a non-predator vocalization, white noise, and a control. We predicted that crickets would reduce activity, spend more time in shelter, and freeze faster in response to stimuli representing greater risk. Contrary to our predictions, crickets spent significantly less time moving, more time in shelter, and were quicker to freeze in response to the control. We did not, however, find clear differences in responses between other treatments. In conclusion, crickets did not respond to predator vocalizations as predicted. Our results also suggest that crickets may not differentiate between the vocalizations of predators, non-predators, and other abrupt sounds. Consequently, eavesdropping may not be a viable method of assessing predation risk for this species.

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