Video image recognition by the jumping spider, Maevia inclemens (Araneae: Salticidae)

Abstract

Jumping spiders of the family Salticidae have well developed eyes, which mediate their highly stereotyped predatory and commnicative behaviour. Experimental studies presented here provide behavioural evidence that salticids are capable of perceiving televised (video) images. Juvenile and sexually mature individuals of the dimorphic jumping spider, Maevia inclemens (Walckenaer), were tested in V-maze choice test and behavioural chambers where they were allowed to view images of videotaped prey and spiders presented on Sony Watchman micro-television unuits. Results from this study suggest that jumping spiders interpret video images as real, because: (1) spiders did not discriminate between live prey and its simulateously presented video image; and (2) they behave appropriately when presented with televised images of prey insects (e.g. stalk and attack televised prey), conspecifics (e.g. courtship and sexual receptivity behaviour directed toward televised conspecifics) and heterospecific jumping spider species (e.g. retreat from predator stimulus). These observations support a previous estimate, of low critical flicker fusion frequency values in this group, and enable the development of a powerful new method for the study of animal behaviour. © 1990 The Association for the Study of Animal Behaviour.