Deciphering a Beetle Clock: Individual and Sex-Dependent Variation in Daily Activity Patterns.

ABSTRACT: Circadian clocks are inherent to most organisms, including cryptozoic animals that seldom encounter direct light, and regulate their daily activity cycles. A conserved suite of clock genes underpins these rhythms. In this study, we explore the circadian behaviors of the red flour beetle Tribolium castaneum, a significant pest impacting stored grain globally. We report on how daily light and temperature cues synchronize distinct activity patterns in these beetles, characterized by reduced morning activity and increased evening activity, anticipating the respective environmental transitions. Although less robust, rhythmicity in locomotor activity is maintained in constant dark and constant light conditions. Notably, we observed more robust rhythmic behaviors in males than females with

SUBMITTER: R R 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11416735 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature