Unlocking the mechanisms of vibro-acoustic communication in termites

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Our understanding of how termites use microvibrations to communicate is limited, as the generation, transmission and detection of these complex vibrations in substrates at the submillimetre scale are unknown. We aim to develop a fully validated vibro-acoustic termite communication model which will be used in Swårmalätørs to demonstrate their ability to synchronise and mimic collective behaviour. This will be achieved by combining novel acoustic levitation, microsystem analyses and electrophysiology to determine physical properties of termite appendages, sensory and behavioural thresholds; and by considering wave transmission characteristics in wood, friction-adhesion at the termite feet, mandible cutting and soldier alarm drumming.