Insect Cyborg

We’ve all seen cyborgs (half human, half computer) in science fiction movies, but did you ever think humans would really be able to create one? Well, a team of scientists from Singapore’s Nanyang Technological University have done just that. The researchers took giant flower beetles and strapped tiny computers and wireless radios to their backs. By connecting wire electrodes to specific neuromuscular sites, the scientists were able to electronically stimulate the bug’s nervous system and actually control the beetle’s movements through a remote control device. The scientists can literally control the beetle as if it is some remote control car. With the remote control they controlled the beetle’s speed, walking gait and step length. What’s more, the beetle doesn’t even need a battery like a remote control car. They provide most of the energy. The only outside energy being used is what is needed to electrically stimulate the muscles, a mere tiny zap. While we’re not exactly sure what they are going to use them for yet, the possibilities are quite interesting. Millions of cyborg beetles could be sent out after a natural disaster to locate trapped humans and send a signal back to people who can then come a rescue them. That is pretty freaking cool! I’m impressed.

What other possible ways could we put the cyborg beetles to use? Are you geeking out as much as I am that scientists have actually made a cyborg?!