Phototactic Behavior of Drosophila Species at Different Temperatures

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Abstract
Using Hirsch-Hadler phototaxis mazes, the light responses of 5 Drosophila spp. were compared at a wide range of temperatures. At higher temperatures D. pseudoobscura, D. simulans and D. melanogaster become more photopositive, while D. ananassae and D. willistoni become less photopositive. Humidity and prior acclimation to higher temperatures had no effect on the temperature-dependent shifts in phototaxis. The possible adaptive significance of the changes in relation to dessication, predator defense and social factors is discussed.