About this Event
A Sixth Sense? How Insects and Spiders Sense Electric Fields
Speaker: Professor Daniel Robert, University of Bristol
Professor Daniel Robert is a world-leading expert in sensory biology and sensory ecology. His research explores the extraordinary ways in which insects and spiders perceive their environment through tiny, highly refined sensory organs — honed by millions of years of evolution to detect the faintest vibrations, sounds, and even electric fields.
Daniel’s recent work has revealed that bees can detect the minute electric fields that build up between themselves and flowers, helping them decide which blooms to visit. This “electric sense” appears to be more widespread than previously imagined, with evidence now emerging in spiders, caterpillars, and treehoppers.
Understanding how these miniature sensors work not only deepens our appreciation of insect intelligence and communication, but could also inspire new technologies — from ultra-sensitive microphones to advanced electric sensors and hearing aids.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
MV Balmoral, Princes Warf, Bristol, United Kingdom
GBP 0.00
