[Influence of weak electromagnetic field on different forms of behavior in grain beetle, Tenebrio molitor]

The influence of weak electromagnetic radiation on simple forms of behavior was studied on the model of the motor behavior of the imago grain beetle (Tenebrio molitor). Positive (feeding) and negative (illumination) motivations were created in the same experimental conditions. Beetles in a Petri dish were put to the starting point of a special container. The goal (a peace of potato or a box protected from light) was in the other fixed point of the container. Time of the goal reaching by groups of beetles was recorded in one daily trial in the course of five consecutive days. Under conditions of both motivations, behavioral phases such as orienting reaction and environmental adaptation were observed. Exposure to weak electromagnetic radiation resulted in an increase in the reaction time at the initial stage of the experiment. The effect was of a seasonal character and varied depending on the behavioral form.