The release of attack and escape behavior by vibratory stimuli in a wandering spider (Cupiennim salei keys.)

Abstract

The wandering spiderCupiennius salei responds to vibration of the substrate either with predatory behavior (approach) or with a startle reaction or escape behavior (withdrawal) (Fig. 3). The effects of different parameters of the signal in releasing this behavior were studied by applying various artificial stimuli to a spider standing on a vibrating platform with one or more legs. Receptors sensitive to substrate vibration and the trichobothria, which respond to airborne vibration, together determine the response.