The Effects of Thermal Stimulation on the Behavior of Vertebrates and Invertebrates.
Abstract
Effects of thermal stimulation on operant behavior in three classes of animals was studied using an escape-avoidance procedure. The species of animals studied were rats, mice, horned lizards, and beetles. Subjects were trained for ten days with establishment of base rates on the first day and measurement of extinction on the tenth day. The results indicated that animals will learn an operant response in order to regulate ambient temperatures in their immediate environment. An extensive analysis of the data revealed that different species would maintain ambient temperatures consistent with their ecological history by means of different response patterns. Ectotherms were influenced primarily by existing thermal conditions in their environment. Endotherms were influenced not only by conditions of the thermal environment but also by concurrent photic conditions. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1971
- Accession Number
- AD0721914
Entities
People
- Sam L. Campbell
- Stanley H. Holgate
Organizations
- Texas Tech University