Scientists Recreate Jurassic Insect Chirps Using AI and Fossil Wings
Scientists have successfully recreated the sounds of Jurassic insects from fossils dating back 165 million years, as detailed in a study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences on August 25. The research team, comprising experts from the University of Graz and the Natural History Museum in London, analyzed 20 fossils from nine species akin to katydids and crickets, discovered in Inner Mongolia, China. Utilizing AI modeling and laser studies of modern insect stridulation, they found that most insects emitted low-frequency calls around 5 kHz, while Sigmaboilus peregrinus produced ultrasonic calls between 20-22 kHz, challenging previous theories on the evolution of these calls.
Key facts
- Scientists recreated sounds of Jurassic insects from 165-million-year-old fossils.
- Published in PNAS on August 25.
- Analyzed 20 fossils from nine species related to katydids and crickets.
- Fossils discovered in Inner Mongolia, China.
- Used AI modeling and laser studies of modern insect stridulation.
- Most insects produced low-frequency calls around 5 kHz.
- Sigmaboilus peregrinus produced ultrasonic calls between 20-22 kHz.
- Challenges idea that bat predation drove ultrasonic call evolution.
- Study suggests other predators or chorus competition may have driven evolution.
Entities
Institutions
- Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences
- University of Graz
- Natural History Museum, London
Locations
- Inner Mongolia
- China
- Austria
- London