Characterization of Morphologically Distinct Components in the Tarsal Secretion of Medauroidea extradentata (Phasmatodea) Using Cryo-Scanning Electron Microscopy.

ABSTRACT: Attachment to the substrate is an important phenomenon that determines the survival of many organisms. Most insects utilize wet adhesion to support attachment, which is characterized by fluids that are secreted into the interface between the tarsus and the substrates. Previous research has investigated the composition and function of tarsal secretions of different insect groups, showing that the secretions are likely viscous emulsions that contribute to attachment by generating capillary and viscous adhesion, leveling surface roughness and providing self-cleaning of the adhesive systems. Details of the structural organization of these secretions are, however, largely unknown. Here, we analyzed footprints originating from the arolium and euplantulae of the stick insect Medauroidea extrad

SUBMITTER: Thomas J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10526352 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature