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An extremely low frequency magnetic field increases unconditioned larval movement of the common cutworm, Spodoptera litura : A novel model for a magnetoreceptive neurobehavioral study
Author(s) -
CHAE KwonSeok
Publication year - 2008
Publication title -
entomological research
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.421
H-Index - 20
eISSN - 1748-5967
pISSN - 1738-2297
DOI - 10.1111/j.1748-5967.2008.00190.x
Subject(s) - spodoptera litura , cutworm , magnetoreception , biology , larva , neuroscience , noctuidae , ecology , physics , magnetic field , earth's magnetic field , quantum mechanics
Abstract One of the most interesting features of magnetic field (MF) responsiveness in animals is the signal transduction mechanism from sensing MF to behavior. To develop a model system for understanding the process, we performed a preliminary behavioral assay using an insect, the common cutworm, Spodoptera litura (Fabricius). In contrast to sham exposure, a continuous 60 Hz oscillating MF (0.2 mT) induced a significant increase in movement in third instar larvae: the MF‐induced movement was longer in total duration and had an earlier onset than movement from sham exposure. Not surprisingly, the movement duration of the group test was notably higher than that of the individual test, suggesting that the individual test is more favorable for assessing the MF effect on movement. Considering the simplicity of the experimental operation and obvious non‐conditioned responsiveness to the MF, this model might be suitable for studying magnetoreception and following the signal transduction mechanism between neurons and behavior.