The influence of temperature on the behaviour of the Mexican jumping bean

1. 1.|The jumping behaviour of the Mexican jumping bean (Laspeyresia solitans) is stereotyped and predictable and has the characteristics of behaviour which is under the control of a central programme.

2. 2.|Temperatures above and below about 25°C decrease the length of time that movements occur. The movements stop relatively abruptly and not gradually. The duration of movements is apparently controlled by an internal timer whose duration of operation is influenced by temperature.

3. 3.|The frequency of movements show instantaneous temperature compensation from about 21 to 45°C (Q₁₀ = 1.23), whereas between 15 and 21°C there is a large temperature dependence (Q₁₀ = 21.9).

Author Keywords: Behaviour; insect; Laspeyresia solitans Q₁₀