The Effect of Temperature Changes on Escape Behavior and Neural Circuitry of Crayfish

Overview

Climate change is rapidly occurring, leading to both warming and cooling in different regions. Ectothermic animals like invertebrates are especially vulnerable to temperature fluctuations because their body temperatures are directly dependent on their external environment. In addition, the invasive Australian crayfish are being introduced to North America for aquaculture and as “eatable” agriculture; however, there is limited research on their potential invasiveness. The habituation of tail flip escape response has also not yet been studied in different temperatures but can be assessed for survival and invasiveness. For instance, crayfish habituating faster in the cold than in room temperature may not be very invasive because they could not respond to threats. Finally, there is limited research on the effects of temperature on neural circuitry, despite advancements in temperature-related therapies and conditions (e.g., heat-induced comas, hyperthermia, and organ preservation). To address these questions, the researchers used three invertebrate model species: Australian crayfish (Cherax quadricarinatus), which survive well in hot and hypoxic conditions; North American crayfish (Orconectes virilis), which are naturally located in the cooler, northern parts of the United States; and Red Swamp crayfish (Procambarus clarkii), which are common in warm environments. Using these models, this study performed two experiments, both after temperature changes: (1) telson taps until habituation and (2) extracellular neural recordings. The results will reveal the effects of temperature changes on the habituation of the crayfish tail flip escape response and activity in neural circuitry. This can be assessed to understand how climate change and temperature changes impact animal survival, animal invasiveness, escape behavior, and human health.

Competition history

• AJAS 2024 Category not listed

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