Behavioral inhibition induced by ingestion in sea anemones (Anthopleura elegantissima)

Abstract

Following tests for initial responsiveness, the suppressive effect of ingestion of Artemia salina on the contraction response of the sea anemone, Anthopleura elegantissima, was assessed. During testing, repeated presentations of a water-stream stimulus occurred over a period of 70 min. All subjects also underwent control testing in which the water-stream sequence was presented in the absence of prior Artemia ingestion. Significant suppression of oral disk contraction to the water stream was observed following Artemia ingestion with and without water exchange during testing. The relationship of this finding to similar results obtained with Hydra is discussed. © 1979 Psychonomic Society, Inc.