Genetic control of the neuronal network generating cricket (Teleogryllus gryllus) song patterns

Hybrid field crickets between Teleogryllus species and Gryllus species were produced to examine: (a) the genetic system controlling the neuronal network underlying song production: and (b) the neuronal mechanism responsible for the superimposed rhythms of chirping songs. Pulse numbers, intervals, and progressions were subjected to statistical and graphic analyses. Teleogryllus songs are controlled by a complex, polygenic, multichromosomal system, even at the level of ‘unitary’, acoustical parameters. Genes regulating certain pattern characteristics are on the X-chromosome’. The superficially similar chirping songs of two Gryllus species appear due to different neuronal mechanisms. One song appears to reflect a single rhythm generator with some relaxation oscillator properties, while the rhythms of the other song seem to be caused by the mixed effect of two resonant type oscillators.