Slime reduces drag: fish

1 of 1 Canthigaster valentini / Jenny Huang / License

Skins of fish reduce drag by being covered by a slime layer of complex proteins, polysaccharides, and bacteria.

Biomimicry Taxonomy

	Move or stay put >
	Move >
	In/on liquids

Biomimetic Application Ideas

Anti-fouling coatings Reduced drag on water craft

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[Collapse all sections] Summary

"Specific organisms can be targeted for specialized purposes. Slick 'no drag' hulls have been sought for centuries. The slickest surface is not a waxed or polished or Teflon surface, contrary to common belief. Using biomimicry, most fish have a clearly articulated slime layer of complex proteins, polysaccharides and bacteria. They are very fast and achieve this speed from the physical/chemical interface of water molecules with the surfaces of the bacteria and components which harbor either thinly affixed water molecules or compounds which have the appropriate hydrophilicity/hydrophobicity balance." (Guritza 2002:1)

About the inspiring organism

Chordata
Chordata

Organism/taxonomy data provided by:
Species 2000 & ITIS Catalogue of Life: 2008 Annual Checklist

Bioinspired products and application ideas

Application Ideas: Anti-fouling coatings that protect commercial ships and leisure craft have already been developed. Reduced drag on water craft.

Industrial Sector(s) interested in this strategy: Marine anti-fouling, water treatment

Eco-Clad® anti-fouling paint - Anti-fouling paint

References

Guritza, Dennis A. (inventor, assignee). 2002. Stenoprophiluric matrices, and methods of making and using the same. Patent: World Intellectual Property Organization WO/2002/036112.

Slime reduces drag: fish

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