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How Not to Be Turned into a Zombie.

Kenneth C Catania

    Brain, Behavior and Evolution
    |November 1, 2018
    PubMed
    Summary

    Cockroaches can fight back against the emerald jewel wasp's zombifying sting. Vigilant defense, including striking at the wasp's head, helps cockroaches avoid becoming prey.

    Area of Science:

    • Behavioral Ecology
    • Neuroethology
    • Insect Behavior

    Background:

    • The emerald jewel wasp (Ampulex compressa) parasitizes cockroaches, inducing a zombie-like state via a neurotoxic sting.
    • Previous research focused on wasp venom, neglecting cockroach defensive strategies.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To investigate and detail the defensive behaviors employed by cockroaches (Periplaneta americana) against Ampulex compressa.
    • To identify effective strategies for cockroaches to prevent wasp parasitization.

    Main Methods:

    • Observational studies detailing cockroach-wasp interactions.
    • Analysis of defensive maneuvers, including body elevation, leg kicking, and evasive actions.

    Main Results:

    Keywords:
    CockroachDefenseEscape responseEvolutionInsectsMechanosensationParasitoidWasps

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  • Cockroaches exhibit vigorous defenses, including elevating their bodies to protect their neck and using spiny hind legs to strike the wasp.
  • Defensive strategies involve evading attacks, parrying the stinger with legs, and biting the wasp's abdomen.
  • An aggressive, early defense was most successful in deterring the wasp.

    • Conclusions:

    • Cockroaches possess a repertoire of effective defensive behaviors against the emerald jewel wasp.
    • Vigilance, protecting the head/neck region, and aggressive counter-attacks are key to cockroach survival.