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Gecko foot showing adhesive lamellae

Gecko foot showing adhesive lamellae


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Gecko foot showing adhesive lamellae

Tokay gecko (Gecko gecko) feet on glass showing the arrangement of lamellae. Gecko feet use very small subdivided filaments on the lamellae to bond with their substrates at the molecular level using Van Der Waals forces. Every square millimeter of a geckos footpad contains about 14, 000 hairlike setae, each of which is tipped with between 100 and 1000 spatulae. If a single gecko had all spatuale engaged it could hypothetically hold a weight of 133kg. Their structure has inspired scientists such as Dr. Autumn Kellar to adapt the structure for robotic designs. Gecko feet have the property of being self cleaning, very adhesive, but leaving no residue. The grip is so strong that geckos have to disengage their feet by curling their toes backwards, much like tape being peeled off glass

Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations

Media ID 6319561

© This image is Paul D. Stewart 2009. Do not reproduce without permission of the photographer at Stewartpauld@aol.com

Bio Technology Bioengineering Design Evolution Feet Foot Gecko Robotics Setae Spatulae Van Der Waals Forces Variety Tokay


EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the intricate structure of a gecko foot, specifically highlighting its adhesive lamellae. The Tokay gecko's feet are elegantly displayed on glass, revealing the fascinating arrangement of these lamellae. These remarkable creatures utilize an extraordinary mechanism to bond with their surroundings at a molecular level through Van Der Waals forces. A mere square millimeter of a gecko's footpad boasts an astonishing 14,000 hairlike setae, each adorned with anywhere between 100 and 1,000 spatulae. In theory, if all spatulae were engaged simultaneously, a single gecko could hypothetically support an impressive weight of 133kg. This exceptional structure has captivated scientists like Dr. Autumn Kellar who seek to adapt it for robotic designs and bioengineering advancements. Gecko feet possess several remarkable properties that make them truly unique in nature. Not only are they self-cleaning but also highly adhesive without leaving any residue behind. Their grip is so formidable that geckos must curl their toes backward to disengage them from surfaces – reminiscent of peeling tape off glass. This awe-inspiring image serves as a testament to the incredible diversity and evolution found within our natural world while inspiring groundbreaking research in fields such as robotics and bioengineering. By unraveling the secrets hidden within this tiny creature's footprints, we unlock endless possibilities for innovation and scientific advancement.

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