Scientists Put Caterpillars in an Ultraquiet Chamber to Learn How They Hear Without Ears

Researchers placed tobacco hornworm caterpillars in an anechoic chamber and exposed them to controlled vibrations and airborne sounds, using an accelerometer to record platform motion. They found the caterpillars react to sound levels below the vibration-response threshold, indicating detection of airborne sound via ultra-sensitive body hairs. This suggests a non-tympanal hearing mechanism that could inspire low-cost microphone designs.