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Wearables for bugs. As if cockroaches weren’t adaptable enough scientist are now making them cyborgs. These solar powered backpacks can control the movement of insects from a distance.

The researchers cite potential use cases as search and rescue or environmental monitoring, but in the meantime: nightmare fuel.

From the Byte:

The researchers fitted wireless control modules powered by rechargeable batteries to the backs of Madagascar cockroaches, which can grow up to 2.4 inches long.

By stimulating each of the cockroaches’ cerci, which are appendages that act like sensory nerves, via their tiny backpacks, the scientists were able to tell them where to go from a distance — a wild showcase of cutting-edge tech that they say could one day be harnessed to aid during search and rescue missions or help monitor the environment.

More from npj Flexible Electronics – integration of body-mounted ultrasoft organic solar cell on cyborg insects with intact mobility

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