Document Type
Article
Publication Date
11-2024
Abstract
Autotomy, the voluntary loss of a limb, is a common predator evasion strategy in arthropods. Considerable research on autotomy has focused on arachnids, which have developed morphological compensations to manage the stability challenges posed by limb loss, as explained by the extra leg hypothesis. However, studies in insects are unclear about such a mechanism. In hexapods, a tripod gait means that losing any one limb disrupts one of the tripod stances. It is not fully understood how insects compensate for the resulting loss of stability and potential performance effects. We hypothesize that insects exhibit neural plasticity, allowing them to adjust their gait patterns to enhance stability, improve performance, and mitigate the fitness costs of autotomy. To test this, we analyzed the gait patterns of adult brown marmorated Halymorpha (Halyomorpha halys) before and after autotomy. We recorded gait trials on a flat, plexiglass surface using high-speed cameras and tracked antennae, body, and legs with the software DeepLabCut. Detailed 3D reconstructions were then performed using the software Anipose. Prior to autotomy, insects walked in stable configurations. Autotomy had limited impact on most measures of locomotor performance, except for velocity which was significantly decreased. Gait modifications including limping, using remaining limbs as a "cane", galloping, and use of more legs in stance were observed. We found evidence for both, reflexive change and plasticity.
Recommended Citation
Jubb, Lilian, "Staggering stink bugs: autotomy affects stability and locomotor performance in Halymorpha halys" (2024). Longwood Senior Theses. 41.
https://digitalcommons.longwood.edu/senior_theses/41
Comments
Faculty Advisor: Dr. Brandon Jackson
Committee Members: Dr. Bjoern Ludwar (Longwood University) & Dr. Christine W. Miller (University of Cambridge)