Associative learning in two closely related parasitoid wasps: a neuroecological approach

摘要: Insects are useful model organisms to study learning and memory. Their brains less complex than vertebrate brains, but the basic mechanisms of memory similar in both taxa. In this thesis I subsequent formation two parasitoid wasp species that differ associative odours plants on which they have encountered a host caterpillar. After ovipositing caterpillar certain plant C. glomerata shifts its preference experienced odour, whereas rubecula does not shift odour after experience. This difference between these closely related provides an attractive physiological ecological factors could influence learning. As first step analyse possible differences learning, describe morphological, anatomical histochemical aspects neural pathways mediate wasps. The display high degree similarity morphology olfactory pathway at level sensilla, glomeruli, primary neuropile. furthermore identify octopaminergic neurons reward stimulus species, results did allow us distinguish dissimilarities species. addition redefined terms non-associative analysed temporal dynamics trace. Both wasps oviposition conditioning, differ. displays stable for lasts least five days, starts wane one day. Finally, studied effect traits hosts as influencing formation. For used geographically disjunct populations their use. only change preferred suggesting exert major populations. discuss ultimate contributed