Tuesday, July 28, 2026
Science

Caterpillars hear through tiny body hairs, which could inspire improved microphones

No ears, no problem. The tobacco hornworm caterpillar, a common garden pest, can actually detect airborne sound via microscopic hairs on its body, according to a team of faculty and graduate students at Binghamton University. The research could have implications for improving microphone technology.

Caterpillars hear through tiny body hairs, which could inspire improved microphones
Image: Phys.org
No ears, no problem. The tobacco hornworm caterpillar, a common garden pest, can actually detect airborne sound via microscopic hairs on its body, according to a team of faculty and graduate students at Binghamton University. The research could have implications for improving microphone technology.

Originally published at Phys.org

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