Characterizing long-range search behavior in Diptera using complex 3D virtual environments
Abstract
Flying insects are Earth's most diverse taxonomic class. They exhibit remarkable abilities to locate resources while flying through complex 3D environments. However, we still have not deciphered how flying insects integrate multiple stimuli and extract depth to locate distant targets. Here, we assessed long-range search behavior in tethered flies using virtual reality. We first show that insects of multiple species can navigate to virtual 3D objects. We then show flies can employ perspective and motion parallax to distinguish size and distance amidst a complex background, and can incorporate directional airflow and odor to navigate toward distant targets. These results provide the foundation to elucidate search processes for pest management, pollination, and dispersal, and apply them to robotics and search algorithms.
- Publication:
-
Proceedings of the National Academy of Science
- Pub Date:
- June 2020
- DOI:
- 10.1073/pnas.1912124117
- Bibcode:
- 2020PNAS..11712201K