How Do Australian Moths Navigate Long Distances Using the Stars?
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Synopsis
Discover how Australian Bogong moths navigate their impressive annual migrations of up to 1,000 km using the stars. This groundbreaking study sheds light on the dual navigation systems of these vulnerable insects, blending natural instincts with innovative technology. Learn about the implications for conservation and navigation technology advancements.
Key Takeaways
- Australian Bogong moths can migrate up to 1,000 km.
- They use constellations and the Milky Way for navigation.
- The study confirms stellar navigation in insects.
- They adapt to cloudy skies by using Earth's magnetic field.
- Conservation of migratory routes is crucial for their survival.
Canberra, June 20 (NationPress) Recent research has revealed that Australian Bogong moths utilize constellations and the Milky Way as a celestial compass to undertake migrations of up to 1,000 km annually. This groundbreaking study, conducted by an international team of scientists, is the first to demonstrate that an insect can rely on stellar navigation for extensive travel, as stated in a release from the University of South Australia on Thursday.
"Previously, we understood that certain birds and even humans could navigate long distances using the stars, but this is the first instance confirming it in an insect," remarked Eric Warrant, co-author of the study from Lund University in Sweden, who is also a visiting fellow at the Australian National University and an adjunct professor at the University of South Australia.
Every spring, billions of Bogong moths migrate from southeast Australia to hibernate in the alpine caves of the Snowy Mountains, returning in autumn to reproduce. Laboratory experiments revealed that they migrate south in spring and north in autumn using stellar navigation, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
When the night sky was rotated, the moths altered their direction; when star patterns were disrupted, they lost their way, confirming their reliance on specific celestial cues, according to the study published in Nature.
When clouds obscured the stars, the moths adapted by using Earth's magnetic field, indicating a dual navigation system for enhanced reliability. Specialized neurons in their tiny brains exhibited the strongest activity when facing south, illustrating their advanced navigation capabilities, the release stated.
This discovery is vital for conservation efforts, as Bogong moths are currently vulnerable; safeguarding their migratory paths and preserving dark skies are essential. The findings may also inspire innovative navigation technologies.
"This research reveals how animals interpret their surroundings... The night sky has guided human explorers for centuries, and now we know it serves the same purpose for moths," stated Warrant.
Point of View
The findings regarding the Australian Bogong moths' navigation techniques are a testament to the intricate connection between nature and science. This research opens new avenues for understanding animal behavior and emphasizes the pressing need for conservation initiatives to protect these vulnerable species and their migratory paths.
NationPress
20/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
How far do Bogong moths migrate?
Bogong moths migrate annually up to 1,000 km from southeast Australia to the Snowy Mountains for hibernation.
What celestial bodies do Bogong moths use for navigation?
They utilize constellations and the Milky Way as a celestial compass.
What happens to Bogong moths when the night sky is obscured?
When the stars are obscured, they switch to using Earth's magnetic field for navigation.
Why is this study significant for conservation?
The study highlights the vulnerability of Bogong moths and the need to protect their migratory routes and dark skies.
Is this the first instance of an insect using stellar navigation?
Yes, this is the first recorded instance of an insect relying on stellar navigation for long-distance travel.
