Magnetic compasses in insects

Andre J. Riveros, Robert B. Srygley

Research output: Chapter in Book/ReportChapter

6 Citations (SciVal)

Abstract

Using magnetic information for orientation and navigation is widespread in animals. Insects use magnetic information for simple body alignment, homing or during long-distance migrations. Most often, insects use a polarity compass, orienting by the North-South axis of the Earth’s magnetic field. However, recent studies also point to a role for magnetic inclination in insect orientation. Also, magnetic information is coupled with other navigation compasses or cues, such as the sun or landmarks. Here, our current knowledge and future directions on magnetic compasses in insects is broadly reviewed, from the nature of the compass to the diversity of its uses.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationEncyclopedia of Animal Behavior
PublisherElsevier
Pages588-597
Number of pages10
ISBN (Electronic)9780128132517
ISBN (Print)9780080453378
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 1 2019

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Agricultural and Biological Sciences(all)
  • Environmental Science(all)

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Magnetic compasses in insects'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this