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Journal of Experimental Biology 87,163-176 (1980)
Published by Company of Biologists 1980

The Function of Hair Sensilla on the Locust's Leg: The Role of Tibial Hairs

HANS-JOACHIM PFLÜGER ¹

¹ Department of Biology, University, P.O. Box 8640 D-4800 Bielefeld 1, Federal Republic of Germany; Dept. of Biology, University, P.O. Box 5560, D-7750 Konstanz, Fed. Rep. of Germany

In Schistocerca americana gregaria hairs of the simple trichoid sensillum type on the hind tibia near the tibia-tarsus joint can mediate an avoidance response during which the hind leg is lifted by flexion of several joints. The responsiveness of this reflex can be improved by partially isolating the metathoracic ganglion. In these operated animals, the response can even be elicited after stimulation of one hair.

Myograms from various muscles in the tibia, femur, coxa and thorax revealed which muscles were active during the avoidance response. The delay times between the stimulus (bending several hairs with an eyelash) and the first muscle activity are variable (median values 150–200 msec). It is concluded that the pathway is polysynaptic and situated within the metathoracic ganglion.

Note:
With support from the DFG.

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