| Popis: |
Insects have evolved very elaborate sensing systems. The airflow sensors of crickets are among the most sensitive sensors in the animal world. The sensor comprises a thin hair, which protrudes from the surface of the cuticle and sits in a specialised socket. Its elliptical base is surrounded by a flexible joint membrane to allow the hair to rotate. The polarity of the base restricts the rotation of the hair to a preferred plane of movement. The results of the morphometric analysis of the airflow sensors presented in this study show that the maximal diameter of the hair is a strong predictor for the other parameters determining the sensors geometry, such as the hair length, its socket geometry, as well as the hair's elliptical base, which is otherwise hidden within the socket and out of view unless the hair and its base are removed. |
