Ear flaps keep water out: otters

1 of 1 North American River Otters / Dmitry Azovt.. / License

The ears of otters protect from water via ear-flaps.

Biomimicry Taxonomy

	Maintain physical integrity >
	Protect from abiotic factors >
	Excess liquids

Biomimetic Application Ideas

Simple seals for functional holes in boat siding, seals for machinery, water-resistant packaging, roofs or other structures that close or move in response to rain.

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[Collapse all sections] Summary

"Among aquatic mammals such as the otter, the ear-flap can be pressed down to close the ear to water." (Foy and Oxford Scientific Films 1982:167)

About the inspiring organism

Mustelidae
Mustelidae

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

Bioinspired products and application ideas

Application Ideas: Simple seals for functional holes in boat siding, seals for machinery, water-resistant packaging, roofs or other structures that close or move in response to rain.

Industrial Sector(s) interested in this strategy: Boats, manufacturing, packaging, building

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.

Ear flaps keep water out: otters

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