How to Walk on Water and Climb up Walls

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Insects walk on water, snakes slither, and fish swim with remarkable grace and speed. How do they achieve this, and what can we learn from their movements? David Hu takes readers on an enlightening journey into animal motion, exploring how various species have adapted to their environments by leveraging physical laws in astonishing ways. From MIT labs to Panama's rainforests, Hu showcases the latest discoveries in animal mechanics, which are inspiring innovations in robotics and technology that emulate nature's efficiency. He examines diverse movements, such as the sandfish's undulations and dogs shaking off water in seconds, alongside the crash-resistant flight of insects. Hu also investigates swarm intelligence, highlighting how army ants link their bodies to form bridges across ravines. The book delves into nature's surprising feats, including flying snakes and rainstorm-resistant mosquitoes, revealing insights into energy, flexibility, and water repellency. As researchers gain a deeper understanding of these phenomena, they apply this knowledge to cutting-edge technology, integrating biology, engineering, physics, and robotics to unravel the fascinating mechanics of animal locomotion.