Rizki, M.T.M. 1999. Genetics of behavior.
Dros. Inf. Serv. 82: 127. View PDF
Genetics of behavior.
Rizki, M.T.M. [reprinted from DIS 31: 183, 1957].
We
have been doing some experiments on the response of normal and mutant strains
of D. melanogaster to the smell of food, in order to demonstrate the possible
influence of inheritance on the behavior pattern of flies. A simple apparatus constructed from a
cardboard box with a transparent cover is sufficient to carry out these
experiments (see drawing). Air
saturated with the desired mixture is blown through rubber tubing into the
box. Flies are generally starved
overnight and conditioned in the plastic-covered box, which contains a small
vial of moist cotton. The flies
will respond to the control of moist air if water is not available during
the conditioning period. Desiccation
is also avoided. When air saturated
with the odor of yeast and honey is blown into the box, the following components
of behavior of Oregon-R flies can be observed in an orderly sequence:
(a) fluttering of wings, (b)
shaking of abdomen, (c) looping
or circling, (d) walking straight
to the orifice of the tube which is the origin of the odor. This experiment can be modified by introducing
other variables, such as different kinds of smells and different mutants.
Students have found these experiments interesting and instructive,
particularly those who are interested in psychology and behavior.
