Klein, M. C. G. and Gorb, Stanislav (2016) Scratch resistance of the ventral skin surface in four snake species (Squamata, Serpentes). Zoology, 119 (2). pp. 81-96. DOI 10.1016/j.zool.2015.12.006.

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Abstract

Snakes are limbless tetrapods highly specialized for sliding locomotion on various substrates. Their skin is constantly exposed to high friction forces, which promotes abrasion. Snake skin has material and surface specializations, presumably optimized for friction and abrasion resistance. We found that different snake species living in different habitats have different abrasion patterns and hypothesized that this correlates with specific epidermal architecture and surface topography. To test this hypothesis artificial scratches, under controlled load conditions, were created on the ventral skin material (epidermis) of four snake species adapted to different habitats: Lampropeltis getula califomiae (stony and sandy soil substrates), Epicrates cenchria cenchria (trees, soil and water), Morelia viridis (trees), and Gongylophis colubrinus (burrowing in sand). Abrasion appearance on the skin surface was examined using scanning electron microscopy and white light interferometry. The material failure was different between the species, which we attribute to differences in the epidermis' response to the same abrasive challenge. We also discuss abrasion resistance mechanisms and the correlation with the different ultrastructure and surface microstructure. (C) 2016 Published by Elsevier GmbH.

Document Type:	Article
Additional Information:	Times Cited: 0 Klein, Marie-Christin G. Gorb, Stanislav N.
Keywords:	Abrasion, Snake skin, Sliding locomotion, Wear resistance, Reptilia
Research affiliation:	Kiel University Kiel University > Kiel Marine Science OceanRep > The Future Ocean - Cluster of Excellence
Refereed:	Yes
Open Access Journal?:	No
Publisher:	Elsevier
Projects:	Future Ocean
Date Deposited:	16 Mar 2017 07:58
Last Modified:	23 Sep 2019 19:58
URI:	https://oceanrep.geomar.de/id/eprint/36165

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