Abstract

Overview

The study delves into the influence of Electromagnetic Fields (EMF) on crickets, specifically examining changes in their calling songs and phonotaxis, and variations in the levels of biogenic amines in their brains.

Key Findings

• Exposure to EMF (50 Hz, 7 mT) alters the male cricket's calling song, increasing the number and reducing the period of chips, although not affecting the sound frequency.
• Different age groups of female crickets showed varying responses to the modified and natural signals, with older females being attracted to both, while younger females preferred only the EMF-altered signals.
• Significant changes were observed in the brain chemistry of the exposed males, including increased levels of dopamine, tyramine, and serotonin, and a decreased level of octopamine.

Conclusion

The findings suggest that EMF exposure induces a stress response in crickets, affecting their behavioral patterns and brain chemistry, potentially impacting mate choice and overall species fitness.