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Created: 2012-06-24
Updated: 2012-06-24

Retractable claws have many functions: African lion


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Slide_show_arrows  1 of 3 Pair of lions v2 / User:Robek / LicenseCC-by - Attribution

The claws cats provide versatility for a variety of functions, such as gripping or running, because they are retractable.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
 
Taxonomy_1 Move or stay put >
Taxonomy_2 Move >
Taxonomy_3 In/on solids
Biomimetic Application Ideas
 
Tires or vehicles that function well on various terrains, safety devices for equipment that functions at various speeds, retractable awnings, retractable needles or internal medical equipment.

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[Collapse all sections] Summary
"The paws of a lion resemble those of most of the cat family. Cats and dogs walk in what is called the digitigrade position: the heel and instep are raised off the ground, making locomotion quieter and more versatile. The large pads on the ball of the foot and on the toes provide a cushion when walking and also help silence the feet. The lion has retractile claws -- it can retract them while at rest or when walking, so that they do not catch in the ground and reduce his speed." (Foy and Oxford Scientific Films 1982:177)
About the inspiring organism
Threat Categories LONG_VU Med_mppanthera_leo_krugeri_6 Lion
Panthera leo (Linnaeus, 1758)
[African lion]

IUCN Red List Status: Vulnerable
Habitat(s): Desert, Forest, Grassland, Savanna, Shrubland

Some organism data provided by: ITIS: The Integrated Taxonomic Information System
Organism/taxonomy data provided by:
Species 2000 & ITIS Catalogue of Life: 2008 Annual Checklist
Bioinspired products and application ideas

Application Ideas: Tires or vehicles that function well on various terrains, safety devices for equipment that functions at various speeds, retractable awnings, retractable needles or internal medical equipment.

Industrial Sector(s) interested in this strategy: Transportation, safety, manufacturing, building, medical

References
Foy, Sally; Oxford Scientific Films. 1982. The Grand Design: Form and Colour in Animals. Lingfield, Surrey, U.K.: BLA Publishing Limited for J.M.Dent & Sons Ltd, Aldine House, London. 238 p.
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