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Cyborg cockroaches

19.03.2015

Scientists from Texas A&M University (USA) equipped a cockroach with a microchip, from which two electrodes were directed to the nerves that control the legs of the insect. This made it possible to control the movements of the "cyborg" with the help of electrical impulses and to control the movement of the insect from the remote control.

In laboratory tests, researchers were able to control the movements of a cockroach about 70% of the time, and in field tests, up to 60%. The microchip is powered by a tiny lithium battery, so that the total mass of the "backpack" placed on the insect's back does not exceed three grams. Scientists noted that although cockroaches are able to carry loads five times their body weight, in the end this can reduce their endurance.

Scientists plan to use such cockroaches as miniature robots that will perfectly cope with movements in hard-to-reach places, in addition, cameras and sensors can be attached to their body to collect the necessary data. Further research will be aimed at studying the possible habituation of insects to the effects of electrical impulses and the potential failure to execute commands.

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