Functional morphology and biomechanics of arthropods

Representatives of arthropods, the largest animal phylum, occupy terrestrial, aquatic, arboreal, and subterranean niches. Their evolutionary success depends on specific morphological and biomechanical adaptations related to their materials and structures. Biologists and engineers have become increasingly interested in exploring these natural solutions to understand relationships between structures, materials, and their functions in living organisms. The aim of this special issue is to present the state-of-the-art research in this interdisciplinary field using modern methodology, such as imaging techniques, mechanical testing, movement capture, and numerical modeling. It contains nine original research reports covering diverse topics, including flight, locomotion, and attachment of the arthropods. The research achievements are essential not only to understand ecological adaptations, and evolutionary and behavioral traits, but also to drive prominent advances for engineering from exploitation of numerous biomimetic ideas.

Automated summary

Representatives of arthropods, the largest animal phylum, have occupied various niches and evolved specific adaptations in morphology and biomechanics. Biologists and engineers are exploring these natural solutions to understand the relationship between structures, materials, and functions. This special issue presents state-of-the-art research using modern methodologies, covering topics such as flight, locomotion, and attachment of arthropods.