Researchers at the University of Strathclyde have discovered that the greater wax moth¹ is capable of sensing sound frequencies of up to 300kHz – the highest recorded frequency sensitivity of any animal in the natural world. Humans are only capable of hearing sounds of 20kHz maximum, dropping to around 12-15kHz as we age, and even dolphins, known exponents²（范例） of ultrasound, can't compete as their limitations are around 160kHz.

 

The research, conducted at the University's Centre for Ultrasonic³ Engineering, has identified the extraordinary sensory⁴ characteristics of the moth, paving the way for developments in air-couple ultrasound.

 

Dr James Windmill, who has led the research at Strathclyde, said: "We are extremely surprised to find that the moth is capable of hearing sound frequencies at this level and we hope to use the findings to better understand air-coupled ultrasound."

 

"The use of ultrasound in air is extremely difficult as such high frequency signals are quickly weakened in air. Other animals such as bats are known to use ultrasound to communicate and now it is clear that moths⁵ are capable of even more advanced use of sound.

 

"It's not entirely⁶ clear how the moths have developed to be able to hear at such a high frequency, but it is possible that they have had to improve the communication between each other to avoid capture from their natural predator⁷ – the bat – which use similar sounds."

 

The research findings will allow the Dr Windmill and his colleagues to further develop their understanding of ultrasound and how to transmit and receive ultrasonic pulses travelling in air.

 

With frequency sensitivity that is unparalleled in the animal kingdom, this moth is ready for any echolocation call adaptations made by the bat in the on-going bat–moth evolutionary⁸ war.

 

Dr Windmill's multi-disciplinary research team is now working to apply the biological study of this, and other insect ears to the design of micro-scale acoustic⁹ systems. It is hoped that by studying the unprecedented¹⁰ capabilities¹¹ of the moth's ear, the team can produce new technological¹² innovations, such as miniature microphones.

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