Curvature Helps Stiffen Fish Fins (VIDEO)

Brown University

Caption

New research shows how the architecture of fish fins combines the bending strength of bones with the elastic resistance of the membrane that lashes them together, making the fin stiffer. The way in which this architecture transmits forces is broadly similar to the way in which forces are transmitted in a slice of pizza that is curved at the crust and becomes more rigid along its length.

Credit

Mandre Lab / Brown University

Usage Restrictions

None

License

Licensed content

Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.