Caffeine-Induced Behavioral Changes in Preference and Olfactory Learning in Madagascar Hissing Cockroaches

Authors: Yasmine Fendoune, Adelaide Lowery, Allyson Hugh, Isabella Cedeno, Lauren Peralta

Field of Study: Integrative Neuroscience

Faculty Mentors: Alexandra Martin, Mary Ann Bogert

Easel: 81

Timeslot: Afternoon

Abstract: Caffeine is a widely consumed psychostimulant that is known to influence activity and reward-seeking behavior across species. This study examined whether caffeine affects behavioral preference and olfactory learning in Madagascar hissing cockroaches (Gromphadorhina portentosa). Twenty-four cockroaches (13 male, 11 female) were exposed to a caffeinated sucrose solution paired with a distinct scent (isoamyl acetate) and a control sucrose solution paired with an alternative scent (butyric acid). Choice behavior and locomotor activity were measured across repeated trials using a T-maze. It is hypothesized that cockroaches would develop a preference for the caffeinated solution and associate it with its corresponding scent, increasing activity and the likelihood of selecting the caffeine-associated arm. These findings will provide insight into stimulant-modulated behavior and associative learning in invertebrate models.