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Journal of Experimental Biology, Vol 126, Issue 1 479-497, Copyright © 1986 by Company of Biologists

JOURNAL ARTICLES

Kinematics and aerodynamics of the greater horseshoe bat, Rhinolophus ferrumequinum, in horizontal flight at various flight speeds

HD Aldridge

The kinematics and aerodynamics of the greater horseshoe bat, Rhinolophus ferrumequinum, in horizontal flight at a range of velocities are described. As flight speed increases there is a gradual change in the bat's wingbeat kinematics, wingbeat frequency decreasing and wingbeat strokeplane angles increasing. Associated with these changes are changes in the wings' incidence angles, particularly during the upstroke. At low speeds these are large and negative, suggesting thrust generation, while at high speeds these are positive and large, indicating that weight support and negative thrust are being generated. The change from one kinematic pattern to the other occurred gradually. The possible energetic and aerodynamic reasons for these changes are discussed.




© The Company of Biologists Ltd 1986