A Novel Interception Strategy in a Miniature Robber Fly with Extreme Visual Acuity.

ABSTRACT: Our visual system allows us to rapidly identify and intercept a moving object. When this object is far away, we base the trajectory on the target's location relative to an external frame of reference [1]. This process forms the basis for the constant bearing angle (CBA) model, a reactive strategy that ensures interception since the bearing angle, formed between the line joining pursuer and target (called the range vector) and an external reference line, is held constant [2-4]. The CBA model may be a fundamental and widespread strategy, as it is also known to explain the interception trajectories of bats and fish [5, 6]. Here, we show that the aerial attack of the tiny robber fly Holcocephala fusca is consistent with the CBA model. In addition, Holcocephala fusca displays a novel proactive

SUBMITTER: Wardill TJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5364399 | biostudies-literature | 2017 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature