Leaves channel water: sacred fig

1 of 1 Sacred fig leaves with drip tips / Challiyil Es.. / License

The leaves of sacred figs channel water off their surface via unique shape, called drip tips.

Biomimicry Taxonomy

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Biomimetic Application Ideas

Designing roofs and eaves to guide water Using shape to channel water away from potential water sinks

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[Collapse all sections] Summary

"Leaves are shaped so that water is funneled to run off the tip (called drip tips). Occurs more in understory, shady, humid conditions. An undergrowth study in Ghana showed that 90% of species have drip tips and that drip tips dry within 20 minutes rather than still wet at 90 minutes. They might also increase photosynthesis and prevent accumulation of epiphytes." (Biomimicry Guild unpublished report)

About the inspiring organism

Ficus religiosa
Ficus religiosa L.
[Peepul tree]

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: Using shape to channel water away from potential water sinks.

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

Leaves channel water: sacred fig

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