The Co-Ordination of Insect Movements

Concepts

Life SciencesEntomologyZoologyInsect BehaviorInsect MorphologyInsect PhysiologyInsect Nervous System AnatomyInternal AnatomyLeg MorphologyLocomotion ControlBiomechanics Of Insect LocomotionFunctional Anatomy Of MovementInsect BiomechanicsInsect Locomotor ControlInsect Motor ControlLeg Coordination In WalkingLocomotor Structure AnatomyMusculature Organization

TL;DR

Insect walking is a common behavior, yet its mechanism has been understudied, and cinematography aids investigation. The study aims to characterize the normal walking pattern of cockroaches and other insects as a precursor to neuromuscular coordination research. A preliminary mechanical analysis using stills from cinematographic films was performed, though forces were not measured. The paper presents results and a functional anatomy description of the insect leg.

Abstract

ABSTRACT Though walking forms part of many insect behaviour patterns, the mechanism of insect walking has received relatively little attention in recent years. As a preliminary to a later investigation of neuromuscular co-ordination in insects, the normal pattern of walking movements in the cockroach and other insects has been studied. The results obtained and an account of the functional anatomy of the insect leg are given in this paper. The forces involved have not been measured, but a preliminary analysis of the mechanics of walking has been made with the help of ‘stills’ from cinematographic films. The use of cinematography greatly facilitates such an investigation.