130 
Psyche 
[April 
conducted a number of similar experiments, using the adults of 
the large Saturnidse as subjects. A majority of the insects gave 
positive responses to a wide range of notes sounded on various 
wind instruments. 
In 1925, Kroning tested the auditory sense of bees with a 
siren. His extensive experiments lead him to the conclusion 
that, “die Bienen konnten keine Tone wahrend des Fliegens 
horen, wohl aber in Marsch oder wahrend des Sitzens.” 
Minnich (1925) brings forth positive evidence in support of 
the presence of an auditory sense in the larvae of Vanessa antiopa. 
His experiments were extensive and complete. He found that 
these larvae, when stimulated by sounds, quickly elevated the 
anterior third of the body. Minnich was very careful to eliminate 
other possible sources of stimulation. The larvae of all instars 
responded; even headless individuals, and parts of the body 
were capable of response. Minnich also removed the spines; in 
other cases he loaded them with water droplets or dry flour. 
Larvae so treated failed to respond to sounds. The larvae were 
tested with a wide range of notes. Mature larvae responded to 
notes between C “ (1024 vibrations) and C3 (32 vibrations.) 
Original Experiments 
The experiments of Minnich suggested to me the possibility 
of similar reactions in Datana larvae. These insects are the 
caterpillars of certain moths. They feed in groups, and give 
very definite responses to various external stimuli. Air currents, 
sudden jars, and certain sounds cause each larva to elevate the 
anterior and posterior thirds of its body; contact with the sub- 
stratum is maintained by means of the four middle pairs of 
prolegs. If the stimuli are continued,* the insects may throw 
their heads from side to side. 
The larvae of D. perspicua feed on sumac. Just prior to 
metamorphosis they measure about two inches in length by one- 
fourth of an inch in width. Their general color is black, but they 
are marked by several longitudinal yellow stripes. The body is 
covered with long grayish hairs, so sparsely that the surface of 
the body is easily visible, but plentiful enough to constitute a 
