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Deprecated: Implicit conversion from float 227.6 to int loses precision in C:\Inetpub\vhosts\kidney.de\httpdocs\pget.php on line 534 Curr+Biol 2017 ; 27 (6): 854-9 Nephropedia Template TP
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A Novel Interception Strategy in a Miniature Robber Fly with Extreme Visual Acuity #MMPMID28286000
Curr Biol 2017[Mar]; 27 (6): 854-9 PMID28286000show ga
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, 3, 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 strategy, termed ?lock-on? phase, embedded with the later part of the flight. We found the object detection threshold for this species to be 0.13°, enabled by an extremely specialized, forward pointing fovea (?5 ommatidia wide, interommatidial angle ?? = 0.28°, photoreceptor acceptance angle ?? = 0.27°). This study furthers our understanding of the accurate performance that a miniature brain can achieve in highly demanding sensorimotor tasks and suggests the presence of equivalent mechanisms for target interception across a wide range of taxa. Video Abstract: