Behavior of <i>Epiperipatus biolleyi</i> (Onychophora: Peripatidae) under laboratory conditions

Abstract

The behavior of Epiperipalus biolleyi Bouvier was studied in the laboratory. In choice tests, bryophyte vegetation and its associated soíl were preferred 10 grass and its soil. In 87 hr the anirnals changed artificial burrows 2.89 times. They enter burrows mostly by walking forward and show a tendency to rest facing the entrance. No agressive competition for burrows was observed. Pairs rest with some body contact about half the time. Seven resting body postures were identified.They hide from direct sunlight in 189 s (mean) when placed over moss and appear to avoid light around 470-600 nm. Walking speed was near l cm/s. They float and become tergid in freshwater but drown in sea water. Their adhesive secretion has a bitter taste and dissolves in less than 3 s in sea water but remains adhesive under freshwater for at least 20 hr. In nature, anirnals bear scars and mutilated oncopods. Death is often preceded by a retraction of the antennae and expulsion of saliva, adhesive substance, faeces and sometimes embryos. Ecdysis occurs aproxirnatelyevery 15 days. At least one bird (Turdus grayii) and one snake (Micrurus hemprichit) are known to prey on other onychophoran species in the wíld.