The investigation of searching behavior in odor localization

Abstract

In this study, searching behavior in odor localization in human was investigated. In order to search the source of the odor, we turn our heads or approach the direction of the presumed source in everyday life. However, there are few reports that have systematically examined the behavioral processes of localization of odor source. In this experiment, participants identified the positions of odor sources placed on the table (two-dimensional plane), and their respiratory cycle and movement of the upper part of the body during searching behavior were recorded. As results, a series of behavioral process was commonly observed among all participants; first, participants began smelling from the particular place, then started to search around and focused on the limited area where the odor source is presumed to be, and finally decided on the direction of the odor source. The strategies of the participants when they were focused on searching for the odor differed with each other. Although a successful strategy was not found, moving the upper part of the body at the beginning of sniffing was not effective because this action caused a change of airflow surrounding participants and diffused the trails of odor.