Tiny worm uses static electricity to leap and infect flying insects

A nematode shown after jumping. Pic Courtesy/Victor Ortega-Jimenez

Scientists have discovered that a microscopic parasitic worm can propel itself astonishing distances through the air by using static electricity.

The worm is capable of jumping as high as 25 times its own body length to latch onto flying insects.

"We've identified the electrostatic mechanism this worm uses to hit its target, and we've shown the importance of this mechanism for the worm's survival.

Higher voltage, combined with a tiny breath of wind, greatly boosts the odds of a jumping worm connecting to a flying insect," said a researcher.

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