Mechanisms underpinning aggregation and collective movement by insect groups

Abstract

Collective movement behaviours range from temporary aggregations to coordinated mass migrations with synchronous movement. Models show how complex collective patterns can arise from simple rules regulating local interactions between individuals. However, it is not always clear how these rules are implemented by real insects: even simple abstract rules contain non-trivial assumptions about the perceptual abilities of individuals. Here we review the underlying mechanisms of simple forms of aggregation and collective movement focussing on locusts using them as an example of system in which analyses of the underlying molecular and neural mechanisms have become feasible. These and similar studies promise to reveal the physiological rules governing these behaviours.