Abstract
Group-size preference in circadian hiding behavior by female B. Germanica was investigated by providing first-instar nymphs and adults with numerous similar hiding shelters. The cockroaches were given the opportunity to aggregate, space, or distribute themselves among the shelters in any fashion. Results indicated that both nymphs and adults preferred to hide either alone or in small groups of six or less. However, nymphs chose smaller groups than adults. The results are discussed in terms of circadian vs. escape hiding. It is also suggested that group-size preference may partially depend on population density, since cockroaches aggregate rather than space themselves as population density increases.
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Baker, R.E., Burke, R. & Figler, M.H. Group-size preference during circadian hiding in nymph and adult female German cockroaches (Blattella germanica L.). Bull. Psychon. Soc. 15, 248–250 (1980). https://doi.org/10.3758/BF03334522
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.3758/BF03334522