friction
- Attachment performance of stick insects (Phasmatodea) on convex substrates
Summary: Substrate geometry has a major influence on stick insect attachment. Traction force decreases and pull-off force increases with increasing curvature.
- Complementary effect of attachment devices in stick insects (Phasmatodea)
Summary: Quantitative data on the usage of various attachment devices obtained from whole-animal experiments indicate complementary functionality of different tarsal and pretarsal structures in stick insects.
- Traction reinforcement in prehensile feet of harvestmen (Arachnida, Opiliones)
Summary: Tarsal wrapping in harvestmen permits a secure foothold on smooth cylindrical objects despite the lack of adhesive foot pads.
- Holding tight to feathers – structural specializations and attachment properties of the avian ectoparasite Crataerina pallida (Diptera, Hippoboscidae)
Highlighted Article: The avian ectoparasitic fly Crataerina pallida (Diptera, Hippoboscidae) can stay attached to its flying host, the common swift, by using a strongly modified tarsal attachment system, which provides exceptionally high attachment forces on various surfaces.