8/7/2019 1958 Alexander On the stridulation of scorpions

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ON THE STRIDULATION OF SCORPIONS

Author: Alexander, Anne J.

Source: Behaviour, Volume 12, Number 4, 1958, pp. 339-352(14)

Abstract:

1. The stridulation of the scorpions Opisthopthalmus latimanus and O. nitidiceps is

described; one of the two mechanisms previously suggested for sound production is

shown to contribute almost nothing to the noise. An examination of the responses of a

number of small mammals to the stridulation suggests that its biological significance is

that of a threat. 2. The caudal stridulation of Parabuthus planicauda is described and it is

suggested that it may have arisen from an intention movement of stinging. 3. Reports of

stridulation in other genera are examined and it is concluded that the stridulatory

movements of scorpions may, in general, be regarded as elaborated from intention

movements or displacement activities associated with threat.

Affiliations:1: (Department of Zoology, Rhodes University, Grahamstown, South

Africa