Prey-rolling behavior of coatis (Nasua spp.) is elicited by benzoquinones from millipedes |
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Authors: | Paul J Weldon Catherine F Cranmore Jenifer A Chatfield |
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Institution: | (1) Conservation and Research Center, Smithsonian Institution, 1500 Remount Road, Front Royal, VA 22630, USA;(2) Tri-Lakes Veterinary Clinic and Exotics, 111 FM 21, Mount Pleasant, TX 75455, USA;(3) Gladys Porter Zoo, 500 Ringgold Street, Brownsville, TX 78520, USA |
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Abstract: | Coatis (Nasua spp.), gregarious, omnivorous carnivores that range in forests from the southwestern USA to south America, dispatch millipedes
by rolling them on the ground using rapid, alternating movements of their forepaws. Prey rolling of millipedes is thought
to stimulate the depletion of their defensive secretions and to wipe off secretions before millipedes are consumed. We report
that prey-rolling behavior in Nasua spp. is elicited by 1,4-benzoquinone; 2-methyl-1,4-benzoquinone; and 2-methoxy-3-methyl-1,4-benzoquinone, the chief components
of the defensive secretions of julidan, spirobolidan, and spirostreptidan millipedes. Chemicals elaborated for defense sometimes
evolutionarily “backfire,” providing cues to predators on the presence or identity of prey. The elicitation of prey-rolling
behavior in Nasua spp. by benzoquinones illustrates this effect for millipedes (and possibly other arthropods) that defensively discharge these
compounds. |
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