Many animals, including elephants and spiders, possess seismic senses that allow them to detect vibrations through the ground. These abilities are crucial for their survival and understanding them can aid in wildlife conservation and inspire new technologies.
The Royal Society Summer Science Exhibition will feature an exhibit titled "Seismic senses: from spiders to elephants," presented by researchers from Oxford University's Department of Biology. The exhibit will showcase how advanced vibration monitoring tools are used both in laboratories and in the field to study how animals sense vibrations. Attendees will have the opportunity to interact with live tarantulas, experience elephant vibrations inside a multisensory pod, and use seismic monitoring tools.
Dr. Beth Mortimer, who leads Oxford's Animal Vibration Lab, commented: "We are largely oblivious to the seismic signals that exist all around us, but which are so important for many animals. Our exhibit aims to bridge this perceptual gap as visitors immerse themselves in a new sensory perspective."
The exhibit will also include a Seismic Scientist Training Academy—a digital game designed for younger visitors. According to Ella McKelvey, Research Assistant at the Animal Vibration Lab: "Our exhibit includes the Seismic Scientist Training Academy - a digital game that challenges younger visitors to step into the steel-capped boots of a scientist working in the field."
Research conducted by the Animal Vibration Lab focuses on understanding how animals use vibrations for communication and detection. A major project involves studying how spiders use web vibrations to detect prey using computer models and laser tools. Another focus is on elephants' use of seismic communication, revealing their sensitivity to human-generated noise.
Dr. Alice Morrell noted: "In this exhibit, we’re inviting people to step into a world most of us never notice." She emphasized that researching these hidden senses could lead to breakthroughs in science, technology, and conservation.
More information about the Summer Science Exhibition is available on the Royal Society website. The event opens with a schools-only day on July 1st before opening to adults later that evening; public entry starts on July 2nd.