The Inside Out of Flies is a look under the bonnet at the astonishing mechanics of fly anatomy. Erica McAlister reveals the engineering miracles embodied in numerous species of fly and some of the fascinating implications they hold for human technology. Discover the physics of the mysterious ‘scuba diving fly’, marvel at the venomous horse fly larvae which prey on frogs, and glimpse the golden ratio in these creatures’ spiral flight patterns. McAlister touches on the emerging field of biomimetics – the study of evolutionary adaptations to devise new technology – and anticipates everything from medical needles based on the mosquito’s proboscis to hearing aids inspired by Ormia ochracea, a tiny fly with ears on its thorax. At every juncture she uncovers unique and surprising science lessons encapsulated in the form and function of the humble fly.
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New in paperback, an engrossing guide to the anatomy of flies and the science behind their unique adaptations from the award-winning author of the acclaimed ‘Secret Life of Flies’.

Produktdetaljer

ISBN
9780565095260
Publisert
2021-09-02
Utgiver
Vendor
The Natural History Museum
Høyde
195 mm
Bredde
130 mm
Aldersnivå
G, 01
Språk
Product language
Engelsk
Format
Product format
Heftet
Antall sider
256

Forfatter

Biographical note

Erica McAlister is Curator of Diptera at the Natural History Museum, London. She has studied in France, Australia and Costa Rica and her work with diptera has taken her all around the world. She presented the popular BBC Radio 4 series Who’s the Pest?