Abstract

Full, R.J. 1994. The importance of mechanical systems in understanding arthropod neural control of locomotion. Proc. An.Yale Workshop on Adaptive and Learning Systems 8, 21-26.

Arthropod nervous systems have been used for many years as models for the study of locomotor control. Unfortunately, insufficient data have been available to interpret these signals in the context of the plant or muscoloskeletal system. Sumamrized are newly discovered general principles, as well as the generality of previously proposed mechanisms, for animals that differ in leg number, posture, body shape, type of skeleton and body mass. New data on musculoskeletal function reject assumptions of control systems that demand simple reciprocal activation of extensor and flexor muscle groups to power running. Our understanding of arthropod locomotor systems would benefit greatly if neural control could be integrated with musculo-skeltal dynamics.