AI Insight
Researchers have developed a printed suit that enables cockroaches to breathe underwater for up to three hours, creating what they term "cyborg" insects. The technology involves equipping the insects with specialized breathing apparatus that allows them to function in aquatic environments where they would normally be unable to survive. This briefing also covers issues related to fraudulent cancer studies receiving significant citation counts and discusses how scientists can enhance public trust through acknowledging their own cognitive biases.
Why it matters
This technology could enable the use of insects as biological probes for underwater exploration and monitoring in environments that are difficult or dangerous for humans or traditional robots to access. The ability to deploy insects in aquatic settings opens possibilities for search and rescue operations, environmental monitoring, and inspection of submerged infrastructure.
Understand the Science
Nature, Published online: 02 July 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-02108-0
The insects could explore underwater for up to three hours. Plus, fake cancer studies rake in the citations and how scientists can build trust by recognizing their biases.
Source: Daily briefing: ‘Cyborg’ cockroaches breathe underwater with printed suit