Chemosensory Processing of Chemical Signals in Turbulent Plumes

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Many animals use odors to find food and mates, but the environmental distribution of odors is very complex in turbulent environments. Determining the ways that animals use odor and flow information will clarify the capabilities needed for sensory nerve cells and brain activity to guide chemosensory navigation. This project combines detailed measurements of odor concentration and flow velocity fields with behavioral measurements of blue crabs underwater performing chemically mediated foraging trials. Novel laser fluorescence and digital particle-tracking technology is used with advanced videography to obtain three-dimensional data about the chemosensory cues, including multiple elevations above the bottom. Analysis will test the involvement of the antennules, the relative importance of local versus global hydrodynamic cues, the use of chemosensory 'contrast' across the body for turning cues, the use of vertical chemosensory cues for posture and locomotion, and how the flow environment affects signal structure and animal performance. Results will be important for understanding important properties about fluid dynamic cues involved in behavior, and so will have impact beyond neuroscience to fields such as chemical ecology, marine and terrestrial ecology, animal behavior, and robotics and search algorithms. Broader impacts also include excellent cross-disciplinary graduate training in biology and hydrodynamics, including minority recruitment.