Diversity of Cuticular Micro- and Nanostructures on Insects: Properties, Functions, and Potential Applications

Gregory S Watson; Jolanta A Watson; Bronwen Cribb

doi:10.1146/annurev-ento-031616-035020

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Diversity of Cuticular Micro- and Nanostructures on Insects: Properties, Functions, and Potential Applications

Journal article

Peer reviewed

Diversity of Cuticular Micro- and Nanostructures on Insects: Properties, Functions, and Potential Applications

Gregory S Watson, Jolanta A Watson and Bronwen Cribb

Annual Review of Entomology, Vol.62(1), pp.185-205

2017

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-ento-031616-035020

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Abstract

Insects exhibit a fascinating and diverse range of micro and nano architectures on their cuticle. Beyond the spectacular beauty of such minute structures lie surfaces evolutionarily modified to act as multifunctional interfaces that must contend with a hostile, challenging environment. Although numerous cuticular structures have been discovered this century, of equal importance are the properties, functions, and potential applications that have been a key focus. The vast range of insect structuring, from the most simplistic topographies to the most elegant and geometrically complex forms, affords us with an exhaustive library of natural templates and 'free' technologies to borrow, replicate, and employ for a range of applications. Of particular importance are structures that imbue cuticle with antiwetting properties, self-cleaning abilities, antireflection, enhanced color, adhesion, and antimicrobial properties.

Details

Title: Diversity of Cuticular Micro- and Nanostructures on Insects: Properties, Functions, and Potential Applications
Authors: Gregory S Watson (Author) - University of the Sunshine Coast - Faculty of Science, Health, Education and Engineering
Jolanta A Watson (Author) - University of the Sunshine Coast - Faculty of Science, Health, Education and Engineering
Bronwen Cribb (Author) - University of Queensland
Publication details: Annual Review of Entomology, Vol.62(1), pp.185-205
Publisher: Annual Reviews
Date published: 2017
DOI: 10.1146/annurev-ento-031616-035020
ISSN: 0066-4170
Organisation Unit: School of Science and Engineering - Legacy; University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland; School of Science, Technology and Engineering
Language: English
Record Identifier: 99450201302621
Output Type: Journal article

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Collaboration types: Domestic collaboration
Web Of Science research areas: Entomology

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