A Snapshot-Based Mechanism for Celestial Orientation

摘要: Summary In order to protect their food from competitors, ball-rolling dung beetles detach a piece of pile, shape it into ball, and roll away along straight path [1]. They appear rely exclusively on celestial compass cues maintain bearing [2–8], but the mechanism that enables them use these for orientation remains unknown. Here, we describe strategy allows in dynamic fashion. We tested underlying by presenting with combination simulated (sun, polarized light, spectral cues). show animals do not an innate prediction natural geographical relationship between cues, as other navigating insects seem [9, 10]. Instead, they form internal representation prevailing scene, "celestial snapshot," even if scene represents physical impossibility real sky. also find are able respect presented only visible when snapshot is taken. This happens during "dance," behavior which beetle climbs top its ball rotates about vertical axis [11]. reading signals is simple efficient straight-line orientation.