The secrets of the extreme durability of odonata wings.

Abstract

Essential properties considered in the design, fabrication, and application of contemporary bio/nanomaterials have been modeled on adaptations of biological systems, one of which is the robustness of insect wings. Proto-odonate wing development in Meganeuridae began during the Carboniferous period; over 350 million years of wing evolution has selected for agility and long-distance flight capacity in dragonflies and damselflies, making them suitable model taxa for bio-inspired design related to flight. Dragonfly species vary in flight behavior, reflected by variation in wing stiffness and flexibility due to differential venation patterns, wing biochemistry, and wing shape and size. We analyzed 8 distinct characteristics of dragonfly wings that are related to wing durability and could serve as bio-designs for novel technical innovations: venation, nano-architectural surface, pterostigma, antiwetting properties, antimicrobial properties, antifatigue features, antiaging features, and sensory structures. Specifically, we examined a tropical African species of Libellulidae dragonfly, <i>Aethriamanta rezia</i>, using scanning electron microscopy and cuticular profiling, which revealed the presence of hydrocarbons responsible for these functions. Furthermore, we investigated the optical response of the wings within the UV-vis-NIR region. We discuss these wing features in the context of durability and environmental stresses.