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Updated: Aug 13, 2026

Determination of Photoreceptor Cell Spectral Sensitivity in an Insect Model from In Vivo Intracellular Recordings
Published on: February 26, 2016
David S. Saunders: man of insects and photoperiodism (1935-2023)
1Neurobiology and Genetics, Biocentre, University of Würzburg, Am Hubland, 97074, Würzburg, Germany. charlotte.foerster@biozentrum.uni-wuerzburg.de.
Abstract:
David S. Saunders was an outstanding scientist, who devoted his life to his family and to insects. He has made many fundamental contributions to our understanding of how insects reproduce and adapt their reproduction and development to the seasonal changes on our planet. Most importantly, he was a pioneer in demonstrating the role of the circadian clock in insect photoperiodic time measurement, first in the jewel wasp Nasonia vitripennis, and later in varies species of flies. His books on biological rhythms and insect clocks are important undergraduate, graduate and research reference literature. David was also a brilliant teacher and mentor and played a major role in establishing and teaching a series of successful Erasmus-funded Chronobiology Summer Schools in Europe. He leaves behind a legacy, both professionally and personally.
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