The chemosensory behaviour of Lithobius forficatus. 1. Evidence for a pheromone released by the coxal organs (Myriapoda: Chilopoda)

The behaviour of the Common brown centipede, Lithobius forficatus (.L.) is investigated with reference to the function of the coxal organs which are a peculiar and characteristic feature of Chilopoda. Previous studies of these organs in centipedes have been largely morphological and have relied on ultrastructural comparisons with other arthropod epithelia of disparate functions. Evidence is presented which suggests that the coxal pores release a sex-specific pheromone. The nature of intraspecific interactions in L. forficatus is discussed.