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Evidence for a command neuron controlling calling song in the cricket Gryllus assimilis
Chu-Cheng Lin1, Berthold Hedwig1
1Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge CB2 3EJ, United Kingdom.
Journal of Insect Physiology
|April 3, 2025
Summary
Researchers identified a command neuron controlling cricket calling songs in Gryllus assimilis. This neuron
Area of Science:
- Neuroethology
- Animal Behavior
- Insect Communication
Background:
- Command neurons in invertebrates regulate stereotypical behaviors.
- A known command neuron in Gryllus bimaculatus controls calling song wing movements.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the existence of a homologous command neuron for calling song in other cricket species.
- To understand the role of this neuron in song production.
Main Methods:
- Intracellular recording and stimulation in Gryllus assimilis.
- Depolarization and hyperpolarization of putative command neurons.
- Analysis of wing movements and song parameters.
Main Results:
- A putative command neuron for calling song was identified in G. assimilis.
- Depolarizing the neuron initiated singing behavior and species-specific songs.
- Increased spike rate affected chirp repetition, not pulse rate.
- Hyperpolarization reduced chirp rate and singing.
Conclusions:
- Evidence suggests homologous command neurons for calling song in G. assimilis and G. bimaculatus.
- This neural control mechanism for song may be conserved across cricket species.
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