Legs detect small vibrations for communication: water strider

1 of 1 Water striders making vibrations / Max Westby / License

The legs of water striders detect minute vibrations on the water's surface thanks to nerve sensors.

Biomimicry Taxonomy

	Process information >
	Sense signals/environmental cues >
	Sound and other vibrations

Biomimetic Application Ideas

Sensor that detects slight vibrations

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[Collapse all sections] Summary

"Using the surface tension of the water, water striders stand up on their long, skinny legs and send out vibrations that travel along the surface. Because each leg has nerve sensors that can detect slight waves, water striders are able to communicate with one another in this way." (Forsyth 1992:44)

About the inspiring organism

Gerridae
Gerridae

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

Bioinspired products and application ideas

Application Ideas: A sensor that detects vibrations.

Industrial Sector(s) interested in this strategy: Manufacturing, transportation

References

Forsyth, A. 1992. Exploring the World of Insects: The Equinox Guide to Insect Behaviour. Camden House.

Legs detect small vibrations for communication: water strider

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