We outline several experimental variables and addressed the inconsistencies of these variables within the invertebrate fixed interval literature. We posit previous inconsistencies within the invertebrate fixed interval literature may be due to the utilization of aggregate versus individual analyses and contend individual analyses are critical in order for conclusions to be made about species’ abilities to emit responses that can come under temporal control. To exemplify these statements, we exposed honey bees Apis mellifera lingustica (N=13) to either an FI 15-sec or FI 30-sec schedule of reinforcement and analyzed subjects’ cumulative response records, response bin levels, quarter lives, inter-response time patterns, response duration patterns, and trial durations. No measures clearly indicated individual subjects’ responding came under temporal control of the fixed interval schedules; however, pooled group analyses did produce seemingly clear evidence of temporal control.
An Assessment of Fixed Interval Timing in Free-Flying Honey Bees (Apis mellifera ligustica): An Analysis of Individual Performance
