Locomotor Activity in Drosophila Melanogaster

Abstract

The effects of various experimental conditions on locomotor activity of adult Drosophila melanogaster flies of both sexes were measured in the locometer. This apparatus measures linear progression of flies and is based on the fractionating principle of mazes used for behavioural studies. Groups of approximately 100 flies are tested simultaneously but every individual fly is assigned a locomotor activity score. This score is positively correlated with open-field behaviour as measured in the Elens- Wattiaux-chamber. Strong lasting effects of ether anaesthesia were demonstrated. Other anaesthetics (c.q. CO2 and N2) did not show such profound effects. The effects of culturing conditions, density, age and sex were measured. The locometer proved to be useful for the investigations of the effects of different stimuli on the locomotory behaviour of fruitflies. © 1984, Brill. All rights reserved.