Suckers allow fine attachment: octopus

1 of 1 Octopus suckers / steve_lodefi.. / License

Suckers of the octopus hold objects smaller than the suckers by having tiny projections called denticles, 3-micrometer-diameter pegs.

Biomimicry Taxonomy

	Move or stay put >
	Attach >
	Temporarily

Biomimetic Application Ideas

Adhesives for nanoscale and electronic applications; wet adhesives to seal pipes, water tanks, etc.; carpeting and flooring that stays in place via suction rather than adhesives.

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[Collapse all sections] Summary

"William Kier of the University of North Carolina is studying the rows of muscular suckers along the arms and tentacles of octopi. Octopus suckers' tiny projections called denticles are 3-micrometer-diameter pegs that provide more intimate contact with the surface underneath. The denticles allow the suckers to grip a range of objects, including objects smaller than the suckers. This could be useful information for creating stronger human-made suction cups." (Courtesy of the Biomimicry Guild)

About the inspiring organism

Cephalopoda
Cephalopoda

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

Bioinspired products and application ideas

Application Ideas: Adhesives for nanoscale and electronic applications; wet adhesives to seal pipes, water tanks, etc.; carpeting and flooring that stays in place via suction rather than adhesives.

Industrial Sector(s) interested in this strategy: Nanotechnology, electronics, water supply and sewage treatment, flooring, manufacturing

Experts

The Kier Lab
William Kier
University of North Carolina Chapel Hill

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Comments

Thanks to Duarte Miguel Prazeres for finding and uploading this photo.

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