Nerve Cells and Insect Behavior—Studies on Crickets

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Abstract
Intraspecific acoustic communication during pair formation in crickets provides excellent material for neuroethological research. It permits analysis of a distinct behavior at its neuronal level. This top-down approach considers first the behavior in quantitative terms, then searches for its computational rules (algorithms), and finally for neuronal implementations. The research described involves high resolution behavioral measurements, extra- and intracellular recordings, and marking and photoinactivation of single nerve cells. The research focuses on sound production in male and phonotactic behavior in female crickets and its underlying neuronal basis. Segmental and plurisegmental organization within the nervous system are examined as well as the validity of the single identified neuron approach. Neuroethological concepts such as central pattern generation, feedback control, command neuron, and in particular, cellular correlates for sign stimuli used in conspecific song recognition and sound source localization are discussed. Crickets are ideal insects for analyzing behavioral plasticity and the contributing nerve cells. This research continues and extends the pioneering studies of the late Kenneth David Roeder on nerve cells and insect behavior by developing new techniques in behavioral and single cell analysis.

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