| Author Title Journal |
Ogren RE (1956) Physiological observations on movement and behavior of the land planarian Rhynchodemus sylvaticus (Leidy). Proc. Penn. Acad Sci. 30:218-225 |
Abstract / Notes
This paper reports locomotion primarily as a modified gliding movement involving muscular waves of elongation forming "myopodia" and ciliary progression. Random movements resulted from lack of physical contact, inability to find light gradient, or search for food. Planarians turned away from light such that both eyes received the same intensity. Their angle of turning toward a single light source was proportional to intensity. Planarians sought contact and showed typical reflexes in regard to unilateral and bilateral contact. The proboscidiform anterior was most sensitive to touch. The mucus becomes a thread that will support the body when the triclad is detached from the substrate. Chemoreceptors present were sensitive to ions and nutrient substances in the plasma. Food nutrients caused reflex extension of pharynx. The optimum temperatures were 18[degree] - 23[degree]C. Their behavior on an inclined plane showed that responses were attempts to prevent rolling rather than orientation to gravity. The steeper the incline, the sharper the angle of turning downward. Land planarians required a film of liquid mucus and tolerated some fluid uptake in water. The soil served as a "skin** to help maintain their water balance.
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