Hoyle G, Field L H
J Neurobiol. 1983 Jul;14(4):285-98. doi: 10.1002/neu.480140404.
The capability for conditioning of leg position, using loud sound as an aversive natural reinforcement, was examined in a primitive New Zealand insect, the weta (Orthoptera: Stenopelmatidae). Electromyographic recordings were made during the conditioning. A majority of wetas tested came to occupy stably a metathoracic tibial position window, coupled to turning off the sound, set in either flexion or extension away from the preferred rest position. Steady tensions of up to 7 g in extension and 5 g in flexion were produced. However, no electromyographic activity accompanied the tension. It is concluded that the insects are using a peripheral catchlike mechanism to adjust posture.
在一种原始的新西兰昆虫沙螽（直翅目：沙螽科）中，研究了利用响亮声音作为厌恶自然强化物来调节腿部位置的能力。在条件反射过程中进行了肌电图记录。大多数受试沙螽会稳定地占据一个后胸胫节位置窗口，该窗口与关闭声音相关联，其位置设定为远离首选休息位置的屈曲或伸展状态。伸展时产生的稳定张力高达7克，屈曲时高达5克。然而，张力出现时并无肌电图活动。得出的结论是，这些昆虫正在利用一种外周类似捕捉的机制来调整姿势。
