Abstract
The Guizhou gastromyzontidae (Beaufortia kweichowensis) can adhere to slippery and fouled surfaces in torrential streams. A unique adhesive system utilized by the fish was observed by microscope and CLSM as an attachment disc sealed by a round belt of micro bubbles. The system is effective in wet or underwater environments and can resist a normal pulling force up to 1000 times the fish’s weight. Moreover, a mechanism for passive anisotropic shear force was observed. The shear forces of the fish under different conditions were measured, showing that passive shear force plays an important role in wet environments. The adhesive system of the fish was compared with other biological adhesion principles, from which we obtained potential values for the system that refer to the unique micro sealing and enhanced adhesion in a wet environment.
Highlights
The Guizhou gastromyzontidae (Beaufortia kweichowensis) is a species distributed throughout southwest China
Using CLSM, we found unculi under the fins and near the maxilla, which has been reported in literature[18]
B. kweichowensis lives in the torrential streams with rapid and variable flows
Summary
The Guizhou gastromyzontidae (Beaufortia kweichowensis) is a species distributed throughout southwest China This fish has developed an adhesive disc, enabling it to adhere to wet and slippery rocks, holding it in position in torrential streams with high, variable forces. Other fishes with adhesive capabilities, such as the clingfish (Gobiesocidae), were reported to adhere to surfaces with a wide range of roughness[1]. The fishes depend on a suction disc to attach to rocks, and the small keratinous structures covering the surface of the fins and body, unculi[18], are important to increase friction. Based on force measurements, the primary function of the unculi seems to be to entrap micro bubbles to seal the attachment disc. The experimental results show a unique adhesive system with potential values, and may fulfil the call for functional work on the role of unculi[16]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary 
Published Version (
Free)
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
