Habits, etc., of the "Walking-Stick" {Aplopus mayeri). 59 



an almost endless variety of positions, any of which they will maintain for 

 a considerable period of time. They may actually be piled over one another, 

 with their backs down and legs extended in the air, as if they were inani- 

 mate sticks. Such stick-like indifference may often assist them to pass un- 

 noticed by enemies that might otherwise be attracted by their movements. 



6. While moving about, the antennae are often waved or circled in front 

 of their heads, as if feeling the way. Should the antennae be removed, the 

 forelegs are readily pressed into service as feelers, these being waved much 

 as if they were true antennae. If now the first pair of legs are removed it is 

 interesting to find that the legs of the second pair are alternately waved 

 about and used as feelers, although normal insects were never seen to use 

 either leg of the second pair in such a manner. Aplopus, considering the 

 length of its body, progresses remarkably well with only four legs. If such 

 a four-legged, antennaless individual has its eyes blinded, it becomes much 

 confused and often turns in a circle, and twists its head from side to side 

 as it walks. It improves in its movements with practice. 



7. The abdomen of a mature female was cut off between the first and 

 second segments and tied to a stick which was supported on wire legs. 

 ]\Iales in a dark-room were found to copulate in a normal manner with this 

 amputated female abdomen fastened on the stick. This is a unique case of 

 a male insect's pairing with a removed portion of the female. Such an 

 experiment makes it evident that a courtship or psychical response is not 

 essential between the two se.xes in mating. 



