Sea urchins grip rocks with hydraulic power
Sea urchins use a hydraulic system in their hundreds of tube feet to securely grip rocks, allowing them to thrive in turbulent ocean environments and inspiring new technologies.
Sea urchins use hundreds of tiny tube feet to cling to rocks with remarkable hydraulic power. These feet are part of a water vascular system, a network of fluid-filled canals acting like a built-in pump. By contracting muscles, the urchin extends its tube feet, which end in suction-like discs, providing a strong hold against waves. This adaptation is crucial for survival in turbulent coastal waters, preventing dislodgement.
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