Sharkskin and Its Technological Applications

What makes sharkskin different from typical fish scales?

• It is softer than other fish scales.

• It has a unique pattern of dermal denticles.

• It is made of smooth scales.

• It is covered in barnacles.

How does the Sharklet pattern prevent bacteria from forming biofilms?

• By using chemicals to repel bacteria.

• By killing bacteria on contact.

• By making the surface too slippery for bacteria.

• By preventing bacteria from finding each other.

What is a biofilm?

• A single bacterium on a surface.

• A community of bacteria that adhere to a surface.

• A type of virus.

• A film used in photography.

In which settings is Sharklet technology particularly useful?

• In outer space.

• In agricultural fields.

• In hospital settings.

• In marine environments.

What other technologies have been inspired by sharkskin?

• Electric cars and bicycles.

• Smartphones and tablets.

• Solar panels and wind turbines.

• Anti-barnacle paint and underwater robots.