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History:...Constructing bubble nests: foam-nesting frog...Collective body heat warms nest: wood ants...Leaf arrangement collects water: epiphytes

Thank a Genius
Created: 2010-10-13
Updated: 2010-10-13

Legs propel insect far: flea


The hind legs of fleas allow it to leap far because they have a protein called resilin that stores energy and releases it to extend the hind legs.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
 
Taxonomy_1 Make >
Taxonomy_2 Generate/convert energy >
Taxonomy_3 Mechanical energy
Biomimetic Application Ideas
 
Making machines that move using kinetic energy.

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[Collapse all sections] Summary
"The flea owes its incredible leaping abilities to two things: the first is a specialized set of leg muscles; the second is a rubbery pad of protein called resilin that is located in the flea's hind legs. The leg muscles apply pressure to the pad. When the pressure is suddenly released, the pad powerfully extends the hind legs and propels the flea great distances." (Forsyth 1992:28)
About the inspiring organism
Med_465pxflea_scanning_electron_micrograph_false_color Siphonaptera
Siphonaptera


Organism/taxonomy data provided by:
Species 2000 & ITIS Catalogue of Life: 2008 Annual Checklist
Bioinspired products and application ideas

Application Ideas: Making machines that move using kinetic energy.

Industrial Sector(s) interested in this strategy: Manufacturing

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