Cicada Cyborgs Play Pachelbel: Insect-Based Bio-Robotics Take a Leap
2025-05-04
Scientists at the University of Tsukuba have transformed cicadas into cyborg insects capable of producing sounds resembling Pachelbel's Canon. By implanting electrodes into the cicadas' tymbals (sound-producing organs), researchers can control their muscle contractions, altering the pitch and rhythm of their chirps. This builds upon previous research using cockroaches as cyborgs, and holds potential for future applications in emergency communication.