Influence of potential difference and current on the electrotaxis of Caenorhaditis elegans.

Abstract

C. elegans responds directionally to a DC current. The response may be to the anode or cathode, depending on the current, potential difference, and ion concentration of KC1, Tracks of the responding nematodes show that electrotaxes are genuine orientation phenomena. The directional movement is not due to the passive movement of nematodes or to the influence of currents on the muscular physiology; electrotaxes are mediated sensorily. Details of the response are described.