Luna Moth’s Hindwing Tails: A Survival Mechanism
- 9 years ago
A recent study led by researchers at Boise State University has indicated that the hindwing tails of luna moths may exist to act as a diversion to direct predatory bats away from vital organs.
The tail-like extensions of a luna moth’s wings have been shown to help prevent deadly predatory attacks by bats.
The fluttering vibration given off by the tails seems to provide an attractive target for the sound-sensitive bats, who end up attacking this non-essential appendage instead of other vital parts.
In a study led by Boise State University, researchers hung one moth with tails and one without from the ceiling of a darkened room and then allowed a big brown bat to enter.
After multiple trials, the high speed cameras showed that in 55 percent of the time, the bat often focused on the tail and not the body.
Scientists have estimated that the wing appendage gives moths about a 47 percent greater survival advantage over those without it.
Another indication of its role in preserving liv
The tail-like extensions of a luna moth’s wings have been shown to help prevent deadly predatory attacks by bats.
The fluttering vibration given off by the tails seems to provide an attractive target for the sound-sensitive bats, who end up attacking this non-essential appendage instead of other vital parts.
In a study led by Boise State University, researchers hung one moth with tails and one without from the ceiling of a darkened room and then allowed a big brown bat to enter.
After multiple trials, the high speed cameras showed that in 55 percent of the time, the bat often focused on the tail and not the body.
Scientists have estimated that the wing appendage gives moths about a 47 percent greater survival advantage over those without it.
Another indication of its role in preserving liv