Michael Dickinson: How a fly flies

The speaker discusses the fascinating world of insects, particularly focusing on fruit flies and their unique behaviors. The talk explores the mechanics of insect flight, the sensory systems of flies, and the complexity of their brains. The speaker challenges the notion that flies are simple models for neuroscience, highlighting their sophisticated neuromodulation and multiplexing capabilities. Through various examples and experiments, the talk emphasizes the remarkable abilities of flies and their significance in understanding brain function.

What inspired the speaker to study insects?

• A love for science fiction movies

• A desire to become a pilot

• A childhood interest in plants

• A fascination with alien creatures

What is a leading edge vortex in the context of insect flight?

• A special type of muscle in insects

• A sensory organ in flies

• A tornado-like structure that helps generate lift

• A type of insect wing

What role do halteres play in a fly's flight?

• They generate power for flight

• They help in detecting odors

• They act as gyroscopes for balance

• They are used for tasting

What is the 'Trump number' used to compare?

• The speed of flight to the size of wings

• The behavioral repertoire to the number of neurons

• The complexity of sensory systems to brain size

• The size of the brain to its weight

How does the speaker suggest flies achieve complex behaviors with few neurons?

• Through genetic modifications

• Through the use of neuromodulators and multiplexing

• By having larger brains than other insects

• By relying on external environmental cues