Study shows that blue dragonflies can assist in the development of improved robots.
According to scientists, the blue dasher dragonfly, which is widely found and captures 95% of its prey in midair, may aid in creating advanced robots.
Despite their small size, blue-dasher dragonflies are formidable predators in the animal kingdom, able to capture up to 95% of their prey in midair. Scientists believe studying these insects could provide valuable insights for developing more advanced robots.
The blue dasher dragonfly (Pachydiplax longipennis) is a species of the skimmer family and the only one in its genus. It is found throughout North America and the Bahamas. As carnivores, blue dasher dragonflies can consume hundreds of insects daily, including mosquito and mayfly larvae. As adults, they will eat nearly any flying insect, such as moths and flies.
Males of the species are easily identifiable due to their bright blue coloring, yellow-striped thorax, and metallic green eyes. Female blue dasher dragonflies are less striking, with a yellow-striped thorax like the males, but a brown and yellow striped abdomen and red eyes distinguish them from the males.
Biologists at the University of California at Davis studied the flight behavior of the blue dragonfly. According to Dr. Rachel Crane of the university, the species demonstrates a “wildly high” catch rate of prey, with “really fast, high-speed aerial captures.
Sneak Peek on Blue Dasher Dragonflies
The Blue Dasher (Pachydiplax longipennis) is a species of dragonfly in the family Libellulidae. It is native to North America and can be found throughout much of the United States and Canada. The Blue Dasher is a small dragonfly with a body length of about 1.5 inches (3.8 cm). It has a bright blue abdomen and thorax and transparent wings. The male Blue Dasher has a blue face and a blue stripe on its thorax, while the female has a brown face and a brown stripe.
Blue Dashers are common dragonflies found near ponds, lakes, and other bodies of water. They are active during the day and can often be seen flying low over the water’s surface. Blue Dashers are strong fliers known for their ability to hover in place. They feed on small insects, which they catch in mid-air or snag from the water’s surface.
Blue Dashers are beneficial insects, as they help to control pest populations by feeding on flies and other insects. They are also popular with birdwatchers, as many birds will eat dragonflies, including Blue Dashers.