High-Speed, Three-Dimensional Quantification of Ladybug Flapping Wing Kinematics During Takeoff

Utah State University

Ladybug wing and body kinematics during takeoff is explored using high-speed stereoscopic images acquired at a rate of 3000 frames per second. A direct linear transformation algorithm is used to quantify positions of selected locations on the body, forewings (elytra), and hindwings. Design and setup of instrumentation and analysis procedures are explained. Flapping frequency is reported. Significant motion of the forewing and other findings are presented and their applications are discussed.