Experimental Tools

We’re always developing a range of tools, hardware and software, to help with my research. Check out my GitHub page.

CamoEvo – rapid camouflage evolution

We have developed a Genetic Algorithm (GA) that combines human psychophysics experiments with recent advances in GA technology to rapidly evolve target camouflage. The GA allows explicit testing of a range of camouflage strategies and theories, and can simulate important population-level evolutionary strategies (such as polymorphisms).

Find out more here

Optomotor drum

I developed an optomotor drum system that can be used to measure animals’ spatial or temporal acuity.

Published here: Caves et al. (2020) A customizable, low-cost optomotor apparatus: a powerful tool for behaviourally measuring visual capability — Methods in Ecology and Evolution, 11(10)

Assembled drum Drum with lighting diffuser and camera observing from above

3D printed parts Brackets, bearings and sprocket for the drum's rotation

Optomotor drum frame Showing electronics and motor, connected via pulley to the drum

Drum with lid removed Showing the inside of the drum with printed paper walls of a specific spatial frequency

Optomotor electronic wiring diagram Wiring diagram

Egg shape measurement

I’ve developed a useful tool for measuring the volume, surface area and shape of eggs from digital images. These tools are built into the micaToolbox for easy egg measurement. More info here.