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