An analysis of the kinematics of swarming ofAnarete pritchardi kim (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae)

Movies of swarming of a cecidomyiid midgeAnarete pritchardi Kim, are analysed to provide kinematic data for swarming. Statistical characteristics calculated from the basic data are the mean, variance, standard deviation, skewness, and kurtosis of the insect coordinates; insect number-density distribution in space, frequency distribution of insect velocities; velocity autocorrelation coefficients; effective advective velocity and diffusivity for swarming, among others. Analyses show that the motion inside the swarm is more or less random although we occasionally notice some kind of interaction between individuals. An inward velocity is detected for insects flying at the edge of the swarm. Mathematical models based on a combined process of diffusion and of nondiffusion are compared with the kinetic data to evaluate the parameters involved in the model. The result indicates that the mathematical model is realistic and useful. A few features of midge behavior in swarming flight are also noted. The result obtained for midge kinetics should be applicable to swarms of some other insects and animals.

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