Olfactory Sampling and Orientation in Turbulent Odor Plumes

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It has never been possible until very recently to measure the natural distribution patterns of odor in the environment. Dr. Atema and his colleagues have developed tools to make such high- resolution measurements based on the odor-sampling equipment of lobsters. The lobster and the aquatic environment are particularly favorable to carry out this fundamental research on odor-sampling. The present research will try to extract from such odor measurements the salient features that allow animals to track turbulent odor plumes and locate their source. Results from this work will open up our human understanding of an almost unknown sensory world, but one used by many animals, both aquatic and terrestrial. Practical applications can be expected almost immediately in the design of odor-tracking underwater vehicles.