3-D Raum-Orientierung bei Wüstenameisen II

<p>How does a 0.1-mg brain solve a complex computational task? This is the question we are aiming towards answering by using the Saharan desert ant Cataglyphis as a model system for studying navigation within 3-D space, and by combining neurophysiological, behavioural, computational and finally robotics approaches. Central questions of our project are:<br>
(i) whether ants do reduce a 3-D orientation task to a 2-D problem, or whether they perform path integration in a true 3-D manner,<br>
(ii) how different kinds of sensory (proprioceptive) input interact to enable error-tolerant orientation in 3-D space, and<br>
(iii) whether path integration finally enables a map-like cognitive behaviour.</p>

<p>In general, we try to understand how different modes of spatial orientation can interact collectively and set the stage for intelligent behaviour to arise. Conceptually speaking, the small-brain navigator Cataglyphis might provide an object lesson for studies in cognition and artificial intelligence, especially in attempts to understand how complex (high-level) behaviour is achieved by the interaction of rather simple (low-level) subroutines.</p>