Morphology and contact mechanics influence adhesive characteristics of Dung Beetle’s bristle and Gecko’s setae

Geckos (Gekko gecko) use their hairy setae to adhere on various solid surfaces and dung beetles (Copris ochus Motschulsky) use their hairy bristles to anti-adhere in sticky environments. We study why two hairy systems express a conflict in functions by using SEM, histological approaches and functional experiments. Adhesion models and various parameters were collected and analyzed. Based on the morphological data and functional experimental results carried out by natural and denatured gecko setae and beetle bristles, we first demonstrated that the stiffness along the hair is 1000 to 30000 times that perpendicular to the hair. This stiffness difference is the key factor leading to the two hairy systems’ functional differences. Slope of gecko setae reduces contact stiffness, increases contact points and real contact area that results in amazing adhesive abilities. On the other hand, stiff bristles in a beetle have higher contact stiffness, which reduces the real contact area and decreases the adhesion between two contact surfaces. Deformation of gecko setae destroys the hierarchical structure, increases the contact stiffness and results in a decrease of adhesion forces. Similarly, deformation of beetle bristles destroys the erect structure of the hair, interconnects the separated bristles and thus decreases the anti-adhesive functions. These observations inspire us in designing anti-adhesive and adhesive biomimetic systems.