Caterpillar Movement is Driven By Its Stomach
Amelia Roblin — September 12, 2010 — Eco
References: news.tufts.edu & sciencenews.org
All living creatures instinctively seek nourishment for survival, but as Tufts University biologists have discovered, caterpillar movement is literally led by the gut. The investigation will prove to enlighten other scientific spheres as well.
The study’s coauthors, Michael Simon and Barry Trimmer, have observed hawkmoth caterpillar movement with the help of a tiny treadmill and high-intensity X-rays. Through a number of tests they detected a distinctive wavelike movement of the insect’s body with a range of motion unmistakably initiated by the stomach. Not only has this research proven revealing for the biological field, but it is influencing the science of robotics as engineers work to explore different ranges of mechanical movement.
The study’s coauthors, Michael Simon and Barry Trimmer, have observed hawkmoth caterpillar movement with the help of a tiny treadmill and high-intensity X-rays. Through a number of tests they detected a distinctive wavelike movement of the insect’s body with a range of motion unmistakably initiated by the stomach. Not only has this research proven revealing for the biological field, but it is influencing the science of robotics as engineers work to explore different ranges of mechanical movement.
Trend Themes
1. Caterpillar Movement - The discovery of caterpillar movement being led by the stomach presents opportunities for disruptive innovation in robotics and biotechnology.
2. Biological Insights - The study's findings about caterpillar movement driven by the gut offer opportunities for disruptive innovation in biological research and medical technology.
3. Mechanical Range of Motion - The research on caterpillar movement influencing mechanical movement is opening avenues for disruptive innovation in robotics and engineering.
Industry Implications
1. Biotechnology - The discovery of caterpillar movement being led by the stomach presents disruptive innovation opportunities in developing bio-inspired technologies and treatments.
2. Robotics - The influence of caterpillar movement on mechanical movement drives disruptive innovation opportunities in developing more efficient and agile robotic systems.
3. Engineering - The research on caterpillar movement influencing mechanical movement provides disruptive innovation opportunities for engineers to rethink and enhance designs in various industries.
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