Can Crickets Tell the Temperature?
Crickets can be purchased at bait shops and pet stores, males can be identified by the absence of an ovipositor.
Some say that if you listen to the sound of a cricket chirping, you can determine the temperature. Is this true or is it just an urban (science) legend?
Procedure: You will pick up your cricket(s) at the end of the day, only male crickets chirp so make sure you get a male one. Over the weekend, devise a way to test your hypothesis.
Some points to consider about crickets:
- Crickets will probably not chirp if they are startled or stressed, so find a quiet area
- Take several readings at different temperatures
- You can take your cricket outside, though if it is cold, do not leave them out for long
- You can also artificially change the temperature with ice or heating pads.
- You can feed your cricket plant matter (lettuce, carrots, etc)
- Do not put water directly in your cricket container, drops of water or misting is fine.
Short Lab Report should include:
1. Question & Hypothesis
2. Methods (explain how you will test your hypothesis)
3. Data Table & Graph
4. Analysis of DataDue: _______________
See Also Virtual Cricket Lab
