Instrument Al Conditioning of Leg Position in the Honey Bee: an Automated Paradigm Using Workbench Pc Software

Abstract

The purpose of the present paper is to extend the Forman paradigm to instrumental conditioning of leg position in the honey bee and establish an automated method developed in our laboratory for measuring this type of learning. This technique allows subjects to be restrained in a manner identical to that long since standardized in the olfactory conditioning of honey bees and permits physiological measurement. Two paradigms were examined using this technique: punishment and escape, each including yoked and delayed conditioning controls. Analysis of variance between control and experimental groups indicates that learning is being measured by the new paradigm and that it is an effective means of conducting detailed analyses of instrumental and operant learning in invertebrates.