Olfactory bulb detects X-rays: cat

1 of 1 Cat on snow / Von.grzanka / License

The sensory system of cats detects X-ray radiation with the olfactory bulb, rather than the eyes.

Biomimicry Taxonomy

	Process information >
	Sense signals/environmental cues >
	Light - non-visible spectrum

Biomimetic Application Ideas

Hand-held X-ray screening products.

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[Collapse all sections] Summary

"In 1965, a team of biologists at the Veterans Administration Hospital in Long Beach, California, performed experiments that seemed to show that cats could detect X rays. In conditioning experiments, cats reacted to five-second exposures of X-ray radiation in order to avoid a mild rebuff. In attempting to pinpoint the body region responsible for this remarkable feat, the researchers found that the olfactory bulb behind the nasal and oral passages was the most responsive region, rather than the eyes." (Shuker 2001:21)

About the inspiring organism

Felidae
Felidae

Organism/taxonomy data provided by:
Species 2000 & ITIS Catalogue of Life: 2008 Annual Checklist

Bioinspired products and application ideas

Application Ideas: Hand-held X-ray screening products.

Industrial Sector(s) interested in this strategy: Security, medical

References

Shuker, KPN. 2001. The Hidden Powers of Animals: Uncovering the Secrets of Nature. London: Marshall Editions Ltd. 240 p.

Olfactory bulb detects X-rays: cat

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