Distinct kinematics and micromorphology for symmetrical rowing and sliding on water in ripple bugs and water striders.

ABSTRACT: Semiaquatic bugs evolved two different propulsion mechanisms for their symmetrical rowing: a drag-based propulsion in Veliidae and a surface-tension-based propulsion in Gerridae. However, the comparative leg micromorphology and kinematics underlying these two mechanisms remain underexplored. In this study, we compared leg micro- and nanostructures and kinematics of Rhagovelia distincta (Veliidae), which employs midleg fans as oar-like blades for drag-based thrust, with Gerris latiabdominis (Gerridae), which uses long midlegs for surface-tension-based thrust. R. distincta move their midlegs in short strokes and deployed fans which function as "leaky paddles" with higher anteroposterior rigidity, inferred from seta and setula structure, exploiting drag and potentially lift. Fan protraction i

SUBMITTER: Bang SY 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12749290 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature