Mechanistic insights into mosquito antennal architecture for auditory adaptations

Unlike organisms equipped with tympanal ears, mosquitoes hear using their antennae, which are lightweight sensory structures capable of detecting sound. Here, we study the antennae of two species — Aedes aegypti and Uranotaenia lowii — known to use hearing for different functions. Through the use of geometrically comprehensive computational models, we find that architectural features in the mosquito antenna provide mechanisms that promote the detection of species and sex specific acoustic targets amidst the non-target signals produced by their own wingbeats. Structurally, we find that the increased surface area of sensory hairs provides enhanced sensitivity while the tapering effect of intersegmental variation affects the tuning response. These features result in the highest antennal sensitivity through vibration at specific natural frequency modes that correspond to frequencies associated with their acoustic targets.

Statement of Significance

Our study provides valuable insights into the remarkable architectural design of mosquito antennae and its role in auditory adaptations. By dissecting the intricate geometry of antennal architecture in Aedes aegypti and Uranotaenia lowii, we uncover mechanisms that enhance sensitivity to specific acoustic cues while mitigating interference from wingbeat noise. This research builds upon and extends the existing understanding, providing a deeper comprehension of how mosquitoes navigate their acoustic environment. Our findings have significant implications for understanding sensory adaptations in insects and may inspire the development of bioinspired sensing technologies. We believe our work will interest a broad audience by offering new perspectives on the intersection of biomechanics and sensory biology, which can also find applications in the design of bioinspired architected materials.