Abstract
BackgroundInsects are of interest not only as the most numerous and diverse group of animals but also as highly efficient bio-machines varying greatly in size. They are the main human competitors for crop, can transmit various diseases, etc. However, little study of insects with modern nanotechnology tools has been done.Methodology/Principal FindingsHere we applied an atomic force microscopy (AFM) method to study stimulation of ladybird beetles with light. This method allows for measuring of the internal physiological responses of insects by recording surface oscillations in different parts of the insect at sub-nanometer amplitude level and sub-millisecond time. Specifically, we studied the sensitivity of ladybird beetles to light of different wavelengths. We demonstrated previously unknown blindness of ladybird beetles to emerald color (∼500nm) light, while being able to see UV-blue and green light. Furthermore, we showed how one could study the speed of the beetle adaptation to repetitive flashing light and its relaxation back to the initial stage.ConclusionsThe results show the potential of the method in studying insects. We see this research as a part of what might be a new emerging area of “nanophysiology” of insects.
Highlights
Insects, being the most numerous and diverse group of animals on Earth, are highly efficient bio-machines varying greatly in size
We see this research as a part of what might be a new emerging area of ‘‘nanophysiology’’ of insects
Little exploration has been done with modern nanotechnology tools
Summary
Insects, being the most numerous and diverse group of animals on Earth, are highly efficient bio-machines varying greatly in size. We use the AFM method to study precise internal physiological responses of ladybird beetles when exposed to the external stimulus with light. We studied the oscillations of the insect body surface of the ladybird beetle (Hippodamia convergens).
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