CIRCADIAN-RHYTHM IN LOCOMOTOR BEHAVIOR OF GIANT GARDEN SLUG LIMAX-MAXIMUS

  • 1 January 1977
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 66  (FEB) , 47-64
Abstract
The locomotion of the garden slug L. maximus was examined for components of circadian rhythmicity. Behavioral (running wheel) studies of slugs have clearly demonstrated that the activity satisfies the principal criteria of circadian rhythmicity. In constant darkness at a constant temperature, locomotor activity free runs with a period of about 24 h (range 23.6-24.6 h). The rhythm is also expressed in constant light [LL] with a period for individual slugs that tends to be shorter in LL than in DD [dark]. The period of the rhythm is temperature compensated (11.5.degree.-21.5.degree. C) with a Q10 approximately equal to 1.00. The locomotor rhythm can be entrained to 24 h LD cycles such that the circadian activity peak occurs during the dark. The phase angle between the onset of activity and lights-off is not fixed, but is a function of the photoperiod of the entraining light cycle.