Efficacy of the Ventral Abdominal Secretion of the Cockroach <Emphasis Type="Italic">Eurycotis floridana</Emphasis> (Blattaria: Blattidae) as a Defense Allomone

In assays investigating the abdominal sternal secretion of the cockroach Eurycotis floridana, it was determined that the secretion provides an effective deterrent against potential predators. Analysis of grooming patterns of Peromyscus leucopus mice revealed significant increases in mouth grooming and loss of coordination following exposure to E. floridana secretion. Mouse–cockroach interactions also changed following exposure of the mouse to the spray, as the mouse incited fewer interactions and more frequently struck with its forepaws than with its mouth. Monomorium sp. and Camponotus sp. ants also were repelled by the secretion, and Periplaneta americana were significantly irritated by the application of E. floridana secretion. The secretion is able to deter without physical contact, presumably via noxious volatiles. Eurycotis floridana is capable of accurately aiming the discharge as well as ejecting it several times the length of its body. It also was found that E. floridana exhibits autotoxic responses following contact with the secretion of conspecifics.