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Feeding behaviour, sensory physiology and nutrient feedback: a unifying model
Article first published online: 28 MAR 2011
DOI: 10.1111/j.1570-7458.1996.tb00885.x
1996 The Netherlands Entomological Society
1570-7458/asset/cover.gif?v=1&s=9f4d138c97b832f7aa2b973c03a30bdbbfbe3281 "Entomologia Experimentalis et Applicata")
Additional Information
How to Cite
Simpson, S. J. and Raubenheimer, D. (1996), Feeding behaviour, sensory physiology and nutrient feedback: a unifying model. Entomologia Experimentalis et Applicata, 80: 55–64. doi: 10.1111/j.1570-7458.1996.tb00885.x
Publication History
- Issue published online: 28 MAR 2011
- Article first published online: 28 MAR 2011
- Accepted: November 6, 1995
- Abstract
- References
- Cited By
Keywords:
- taste;
- gustation;
- chemoreception;
- feeding behaviour;
- nutrition;
- insect;
- locust;
- caterpillar
Abstract
The design features of gustatory systems are considered in relation to the need for insect herbivores (or indeed any animal) to regulate their nutrient intake. The gustatory system (defined to include both peripheral and central components) should ideally be designed to reflect: (a) the average nutritional requirements of the insect during its various developmental stages; (b) the ‘predictably unpredictable’ variation in nutrient supply-demand which occurs about that average; and (c) the distribution and composition of foods available in the environment. A mathematical model is presented which makes detailed predictions regarding behavioural and electrophysiological responses to foods or simple solutions varying in nutrient content.