TEMPORAL ANALYSIS OF THE RETENTION OF A FOOD-AVERSIVE CONDITIONING IN LIMAX-FLAVUS

In order to understand the mechanisms of learning and memory, early process of the food-aversive conditioning in a terrestrial slug, Limax flavus, was investigated. Basic properties of the conditioning were much similar to those in Limax maximus. Temporal analysis of the learning process indicated that the slugs indicated that the slugs retained stimulus trace for 1 min and showed short-term and long-term memory phase. The life time of short-term memory obtained with two independent experimental strategies, namely, observation of memory retention and cooling-induced amnesia, was about 1 min. The mechanisms of simple learning in Limax were compared with those of insects or mammals.