Gecko locomotion study
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Gecko locomotion study
Gecko locomotion study. Researcher with a gecko (family Gekkonidae) climbing a non-stick vertical track (blue). A high speed camera is used to monitor the animals locomotion. The surface of gecko toes are lined with microscopic hairs (setae and spatulae) that create weak intermolecular forces known as van der Waals forces. These forces are strong enough to allow the gecko to stick to any surface. To take a step, the toes open out from a curled position on contact with a surface, then unpeels to take the next step. This uncurling and peeling action can be produced up to 15 times per second, enabling the gecko to move rapidly. Photographed in 2005 at the PolyPEDAL Lab, University of California, Berkeley, USA
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Media ID 6401205
© VOLKER STEGER/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Animal Experiment Berkeley Biologist Biomechanics Biomimetics Climb Climbing Experiment Experimentation Gait Gecko Glove Gloved Hand Lizard Locomotion Motion Motion Analysis North American Observing Physiological Physiology Polypedal Lab Researcher Researching Scientific September 2005 Setae Spatulae Sticking Sticky University Of California Us A Wall Watching Laboratory
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures a gecko locomotion study in action. In the image, a researcher can be seen closely observing a gecko from the family Gekkonidae as it effortlessly climbs a non-stick vertical track painted in vibrant blue. The researcher utilizes a high-speed camera to monitor and analyze the intricate movements of this remarkable creature. The secret behind the gecko's ability to cling onto any surface lies in its toes, which are lined with microscopic hairs known as setae and spatulae. These hairs create weak intermolecular forces called van der Waals forces, which are surprisingly strong enough to allow the gecko to stick firmly wherever it chooses. To take each step, the gecko's toes open out from their curled position upon contact with a surface before unpeeling for its next move. This uncurling and peeling action can occur up to an astonishing 15 times per second, enabling these agile creatures to move rapidly. Taken at the PolyPEDAL Lab located at the University of California, Berkeley in 2005, this photograph showcases both nature's brilliance and scientific exploration coming together seamlessly. It highlights how researchers delve into understanding complex biological mechanisms by studying animals' anatomy and physiology meticulously. With its vivid details capturing every aspect of this fascinating experiment, this print serves as an inspiring testament to human curiosity and our relentless pursuit of knowledge in zoology and biomechanics research.
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