CT scan showing the structural antenna of a male mosquito. (Image Credit: Purdue University/Phani Saketh Dasika)
Mosquitoes have unique sensory capabilities, and scientists believe they can use them as inspiration for developing new technology. Purdue University has revealed how mosquito antennas work as sound detectors that may shape the next development of sensors for earthquake detection and disaster response.
In their study, the team observed two different mosquito species—each with varying hearing abilities. The first one, Aedes aegypti, searches for female mates by detecting the sound produced by their wings despite the buzzing of other males in that swarm. Uranotaenia Iowii, the second species, relies on frog call sounds to find its blood meal. Their antennae detects frog mating calls, especially across long distances.
“By modeling and contrasting the response of the antenna of species of mosquito using sound for different purposes, hearing mates or eavesdropping on frogs, we were able to tease apart features modulating hearing sensitivity and tuning,” says study author Ximena Bernal, a professor of biological sciences in Purdue’s College of Science. “Understanding how these structures work is the first step toward developing acoustic sensors inspired by their sensitive antennae.”
The researchers developed detailed computer models that helped them better understand the working principle of mosquito antennae. They discovered the antennae work as both passive receivers and structures designed for certain frequencies. Mosquito antenna has a center shaft with different-sized stack segments, and thin sensory hairs branch outward from them. Interactions between these two elements provide mosquitoes with their hearing capability. These sensory hairs also made the sound more sensitive by 90 times compared to rod antennas. This occurred due to the larger surface area capturing sound waves.
The researchers 3D printed a replica of the mosquito antenna. They believe the antenna has the potential to unlock new technologies. (Image Credit: Purdue University/Drew Stone)
“Using advanced micro-CT imaging to create high-fidelity CAD models for finite element analysis, we found that the architectural features of mosquito antennae enable species- and sex-specific acoustic target detection, even amid nontarget signals like their own wingbeats,” said study author Phani Saketh Dasika. “Our findings also suggest that mosquito antennae are capable of detecting a broader range of frequencies than previously thought, though not all of these may be actively utilized.”
The tapering shape of the antenna is like a natural frequency filter. It enables males to detect female flight sounds and the Uranotaenia Iowii females to sense frog calls. Mosquito antennas are finely adapted to frequencies, helping with survivability and reproduction. The researchers are using 3D printers to reproduce those antennas, which will be made of varying materials and sizes for frequency responses.
“We’re still in the early stages but we’re pretty optimistic that we’ll at least learn a great deal,” said Zavattieri, the Jerry M. and Lynda T. Engelhardt Professor of Civil Engineering in Purdue’s College of Engineering. “Taking inspiration from nature and using it to advance scientific research has been a core feature of engineering since the very beginning.”
These antennas have the potential to advance acoustic sensing technology and sensors for detecting slight vibrations. “Imagine urban environments equipped with bio-inspired sensors, akin to ‘big ears,’ capable of discerning specific sounds amid the hustle and bustle of city life,” says Zavattieri. “In times of crisis — such as earthquakes or other disasters — these sensors become invaluable, swiftly detecting faint signals of distress and guiding rescue efforts to those in need.”
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