An Analysis of Behaviour Sequences in Automeris Aurantiaca Weym (Lepidoptera)

The present study is concerned with the sequences of behaviour shown by a common Brazilian Saturniid moth, Automeris aurantiaca Weym, on emergence from the pupa (post-eclosion sequences) and in a simple experimental situation, in which display was induced repeatedly (display sequences). The sequences appear to have relatively little dependence on external stimuli, and in comparison with such material as the Salticid spiders studied by PRECHT (I952) and DREES (I952), whose behaviouriscontinuallydependent on and modified by constantly changing exteroceptive influences, their analysis is simple. The adult moths do not feed, and sexual responses may be inhibited by strong illumination; thus the number of interacting tendencies is limited. It was therefore hoped that an analysis of the relationships between the activities composing these sequences would make possible a hypothesis regarding their underlying organisation.