Modelling the mechanics of exploration in larval Drosophila
Fig 1
Our model of axial and transverse motion over a planar substrate.
The midline of the larva is modelled as a set of discrete point masses interacting with each other via linear, damped translational and torsional springs, and with the environment via Coulomb sliding friction. We model the larva’s incompressible coelomic fluid by constraining the total length of the midline to remain constant (see main text). Quantities used to describe deformations of the body, and interaction with the substrate, are shown in S1 Fig.