Directional cues in tactile stimuli involved in agonistic encounters in cockroaches

ABSTRACT. The ability of male cockroaches, Nauphoeta cinerea and Periplaneta americana , to respond directionally to tactile agonistic acts was tested using stimulation by artificially manipulated appendages. Responses by Nauphoeta included turning towards the stimulus at preferred angles of c. 40°, 90° and 180°, apparently relying on internally-stored directional sensory information. This turning responsiveness depended in part on the social status of the receiving individual, since subordinate individuals often retreated or failed to respond. Periplaneta males reacted to tactile stimuli by quick movements away from the stimulus or by kicking towards it. The leg used in kicking was that nearest to the part of the body which was stimulated.