A new method for studying insect orientations

A new method was used in this study with respect to insect flight orientation. The equipment of flight mill was combined with video tracking method in order to observe and record the tethered flight of insect. The flight mill has more advantages of improved structure and minimized spin friction benefited from the magnetic levitation mechanism except the tiny disturbance to external magnetic fields applied. Much useful information such as heading direction angle, speed and flight distance can be achieved with insect's movement subject to circular motion in a plane on flight mill. CamShift algorithm applied in Matlab realizes video tracking. We use four moths to test the function of this system. Extensive and meaningful study about possible link between flight orientation of insects and influential factors can be conducted with the aid of the new method.