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Aquatic Turning Performance By The Whirligig Beetle: Constraints On Maneuverability By A Rigid Biological System, Frank E. Fish, A J. Nicastro
Aquatic Turning Performance By The Whirligig Beetle: Constraints On Maneuverability By A Rigid Biological System, Frank E. Fish, A J. Nicastro
Frank E. Fish
Turning performance is constrained by morphology, where the flexibility of the body and the mobility and position of the control surfaces determine the level of performance. The use of paddling appendages in conjunction with the rigid bodies of aquatic arthropods could potentially limit their turning performance. Whirligig beetles (Coleoptera: Gyrinidae) are rigid-bodied, but these aquatic insects can swim rapidly in circular patterns. Turning performance of swimming whirligig beetles (Dineutes horni) was assessed by videotaping beetles in a small (115 mm diameter) arena at 500 frames s(-1) and 1000 frames s(-1). Curved trajectories were executed as continuous powered turns. Asymmetrical paddling …