A recent study showed that cockroaches subjected to mild stress, such as light vibrations or exposure to light, exhibit altered decision-making behavior.
In a normal state, they prefer dark and tight hiding places, which corresponds to their natural instincts. However, in a stressful situation, their behavior becomes less predictable and more 'exploratory': they more frequently choose less preferred but new or more open shelters.
This behavioral flexibility is likely an adaptive survival strategy. In nature, stress often serves as a signal of danger or changing conditions in the current shelter, and a quick change of strategy can increase the chances of finding a safer place.
Studying this mechanism in insects helps to better understand the fundamental principles of decision-making under pressure in more complex animals.
