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Transverse orientation, keeping a fixed angle on a distant source of light for orientation, is a proprioceptive response displayed by some insects such as moths.
By maintaining a constant angular relationship to a bright celestial light, such as the moon, they can fly in a straight line. Celestial objects are so far away that, even after travelling great distances, the change in angle between the moth and the light source is negligible; further, the moon will always be in the upper part of the visual field, or on the horizon. When a moth encounters a much closer artificial light and uses it for navigation, the angle changes noticeably after only a short distance, in addition to being often below the horizon. The moth instinctively attempts to correct by turning toward the light, resulting in a spiral flight path that gets closer and closer to the light source.
References
- Karl Kruszelnicki (16 October 2008). "Myth burns like moth to a flame". ABC Online. Retrieved 17 March 2011.
- Debbie Elliott - host (18 August 2007). "Why are Moths Attracted to Flame?". NPR. Retrieved 25 March 2012.
- Debbie Elliott - host (18 August 2007). "Why are Moths Attracted to Flame?". NPR. Retrieved 25 March 2012.
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