 |
Behavioural Plasticity and Neuromodulation of Odour Signals
|
 |
Experience modulates insect behaviour in many ways, but it is generally believed that the response to reproductive signals should be innate. We have found that males of the moth Spodoptera littoralis that had been pre-exposed to female sex pheromone showed higher sensitivity in behavioural assays after pre-exposure, which was accompanied by an increased sensitivity to sex pheromone in neurons in the antennal lobe. The project combines behavioural, physiological (recordings from neurons in peripheral sensilla and in the central nervous system) and pharmacological (level of neuromodulators and immunostainings) methods.
|
| |
 |
| |
Interactions and trade-offs between plant related cues during host plant choice
The mechanisms behind host plant choice are still to a large extent unknown. Most likely are multiple cues from plants needed for reliable identification. Investigations on interactions between different plant stimuli are needed to explore the mechanisms behind host plant choice. Furthermore, the influence of ecological factors, such as exposure to natural enemies or level of competition has received little attention. These factors may be at least as important as food quality related cues. In addition experience during larval or adult life may affect feeding and oviposition choice. The project combines behavioural and physiological methods, and chemical identification of active compounds.
|
| |
Back to Projects >>> |
|
