Cyborg cockroaches may save lives in the future  

In damaged areas

Although they are one of the most hated creatures on the planet, cockroaches may save lives in the future. Japanese researchers have created cyborg cockroaches that could, in the not-so-distant future, help rescuers locate survivors under rubble in cases of earthquakes and other natural disasters.

The researchers placed “bags” on the cockroaches’ backs with solar panels and electronic circuits, with which they can control their movements remotely. The flexible solar panels are just 4 microns thick, about 1/25 of a human hair, allowing the cockroach to move freely as long as the panel generates enough energy to send directional signals to the insect’s sensory organs.

Batteries in small robots run out quickly, so exploration time is significantly reduced. The advantage of a cyborg insect is in its movement, the movements are made by the insect itself so the electricity needed is negligible.

Madagascar cockroaches were used in the experiment because of their enormous size, which makes them capable of carrying the load, while they do not have wings that would obstruct the equipment. Even with the equipment on their backs, cockroaches can overcome small obstacles and get back on their feet if they capsize.

Through a Bluetooth signal, the researchers were able to tell the cockroach to turn in different directions. In a hypothetical scenario of an earthquake, rescuers would be able to use a swarm of cockroaches to locate survivors under the rubble.

The next step is to further miniaturize the technology so that the insects can move more easily, while the researchers will be able to integrate sensors or even cameras. All equipment can be removed and the cockroaches returned to their environment. Cockroaches mature in just four months, and can live up to five years in captivity.