Optical mapping of ground reaction force dynamics in freely behaving Drosophila melanogaster larvae

Author:

Booth Jonathan H.123ORCID,Meek Andrew T.12,Kronenberg Nils M.12ORCID,Pulver Stefan R.3ORCID,Gather Malte C.12ORCID

Affiliation:

1. SUPA, School of Physics and Astronomy, University of St Andrews, Fife, United Kingdom

2. Humboldt Centre for Nano- and Biophotonics, Department of Chemistry, University of Cologne, Germany

3. School of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of St Andrews, Fife, United Kingdom

Abstract

During locomotion, soft-bodied terrestrial animals solve complex control problems at substrate interfaces, but our understanding of how they achieve this without rigid components remains incomplete. Here, we develop new all-optical methods based on optical interference in a deformable substrate to measure ground reaction forces (GRFs) with micrometre and nanonewton precision in behaving Drosophila larvae. Combining this with a kinematic analysis of substrate interfacing features, we shed new light onto the biomechanical control of larval locomotion. Crawling in larvae measuring ∼1 mm in length involves an intricate pattern of cuticle sequestration and planting, producing GRFs of 1-7 μN. We show that larvae insert and expand denticulated, feet-like structures into substrates as they move, a process not previously observed in soft bodied animals. These ‘protopodia’ form dynamic anchors to compensate counteracting forces. Our work provides a framework for future biomechanics research in soft-bodied animals and promises to inspire improved soft-robot design.

Publisher

eLife Sciences Publications, Ltd

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