Nossek M E (1 results)

We observed the sequences of behaviors shown during encounters between individuals in conspecifically and heterospecifically grouped adult female Lycosa punctulata, L. rabida, and L. helluo. Significant linkages within pairs of successive acts between individuals were revealed, indicating that some behaviors have communicatory effects. There were no major differences among the three species in the forms of behaviors shown, nor in the sequences of these behaviors, the sequences being highly variable. Some of the behaviors, and perhaps their sequence variability, probably inhibit approach and/or attack, thus resulting in spacing of the individuals. Cannibalism was infrequent (< 1%) within conspecific as well as heterospecific groups. Food deprivation did not increase cannibalism within conspecific groups of post-mating age females, suggesting either that hunger does not increase the level of aggressivity among conspecific females of this physiological class, or that hunger lowers their fighting potential and thereby increases their avoidance tendency. 16 pp., 7 figs, 3 tabs. gr. 8.