Summary
Using computer simulations and behavioral experiments with the American cockroach, we found that active vs passive (barrier-directed) wall-following can be readily distinguished and quantified by incorporating a range of convex curves into test arenas. Although previously considered strongly thigmotactic, more than 50% of running American cockroaches depart convex curves with diameters, less than 1 m. A new framework for evaluating wall-following behaviors is presented.
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Creed, R.P., Miller, J.R. Interpreting animal wall-following behavior. Experientia 46, 758–761 (1990). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01939959
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01939959