Research on Morphology Specificity of Gecko Feet at Different Scales

Abstract

The fine-level structure of toes contributes to the extraordinary climbing ability of G. gecko . Research on the morphology specificity of gecko feet at different scales provides anatomical information for revealing geckos motor ability and provides theoretical basis and data which can support the development of the robot gecko feet. During the research, we used KEYENCE (VHX-600E) digital microscope system to observe and photograph the forefoot and hindfoot of G. gecko at different scales. The image processing as well as calculation of foot area and toe area was done using image processing software after the number of toe setae lamella was counted. Results: there was no significant difference between the numbers of setae lamellae on the first toes in both forefoot and hindfoot (p>0.3). The same situation also appeared in the second and forth toes. Significant difference between the numbers of the third toe setae lamella in forefoot and hindfoot was observed, the same situation also happened in the fifth toes of the forefoot and hindfoot (p<0.01), the difference between the whole area of the forefoot and hindfoot was extremely significant (p<0.005). The area of the first toe in forefoot was different from the corresponding one in hindfoot (p<0.05), while the areas of the other four toes were extremely significant from the corresponding ones in hindfoot (p<0.005). The results of the research suggest that specific designs should be adopted in the devisal of forefoot and hindfoot as well as the corresponding toes.