Softness sensing and learning in Drosophila larvae [RESEARCH ARTICLE]

We report that Drosophila larvae can discriminate between different agar concentrations and prefer softer agar. Interestingly, we show that larvae on a harder place search for a softer place using memory associated with an odor and that they evaluate foods by balancing softness and sweetness. These findings suggest that Drosophila larvae integrate mechanosensory information with chemosensory input while foraging. Moreover, we find that the larval preference for softness is affected by genetic background.
Source: Journal of Experimental Biology - Category: Biology Authors: Tags: RESEARCH ARTICLE Source Type: research