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Adaptive changes in locust kicking and jumping behaviour during development

Norman

    The Journal of Experimental Biology
    |January 1, 1995
    PubMed
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    Locusts modify their kicking and jumping behaviors during development to prevent leg damage. Newly molted locusts use direct muscle power, avoiding stored energy release until their exoskeleton strengthens.

    Area of Science:

    • Locust biomechanics
    • Insect development
    • Skeletal physiology

    Background:

    • The locust metathoracic leg stores energy for rapid tibia extension during jumping and kicking.
    • Locust jumping and kicking behaviors share a common motor pattern.
    • Developmental changes in exoskeleton strength and muscle force influence leg vulnerability.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To describe developmental changes in locust kicking and jumping behavior.
    • To relate these behavioral changes to exoskeleton development and jumping performance.
    • To understand how locusts avoid skeletal damage during development.

    Main Methods:

    • Observation of kicking and jumping behaviors across developmental stages.
    • Assessment of exoskeleton strength and mechanical properties.

    Related Experiment Videos

  • Electrical stimulation of the extensor muscle to mimic kick-preparation forces.
  • Analysis of skeletal damage following simulated muscle co-contraction over 14 days post-moult.

    • Main Results:

    • Newly moulted locusts exhibit reduced kicking frequency and rely on direct muscle contraction, not stored energy.
    • The proximal femur collapses reversibly in newly moulted locusts, protecting the leg.
    • Skeletal damage patterns shift from femur collapse to tibia and apodeme fractures as the exoskeleton strengthens.
    • Mature locusts primarily experience extensor muscle apodeme fractures.

    Conclusions:

    • Locusts exhibit developmental plasticity in their motor patterns and leg use to prevent injury.
    • Behavioral modifications, such as avoiding stored-energy release, are crucial for survival during vulnerable molting periods.
    • Understanding these developmental adaptations provides insights into biomechanical resilience in insects.