Seeds dispersed over long distances: Anisoptera tree

The two spear-shaped wings of Anisoptera tree seeds enable long-distance dispersal because they are asymmetrical.

Biomimicry Taxonomy

	Maintain community >
	Provide ecosystem services >
	Disperse seeds

Biomimetic Application Ideas

Improved dispersal of aerially applied products More efficient fan blades

[Collapse all sections] Summary

"Anisoptera, one of the tallest of the trees in the same Asiatic forests, also has two wings, but they are spear-shaped and curve upwards and outwards. As its name suggests, they are also unequal in length. This asymmetry causes them to spin when they are released, and the seed resembles a tiny whirling helicopter, which may travel even further than a double-winged glider." (Attenborough 1995:19)

About the inspiring organism

Dipterocarpaceae
Dipterocarpaceae

Organism/taxonomy data provided by:
Species 2000 & ITIS Catalogue of Life: 2008 Annual Checklist

Bioinspired products and application ideas

Application Ideas: Improved dispersal of aerially applied products. More efficient fan blades.

Industrial Sector(s) interested in this strategy: Agriculture, bioremediation, forestry

References

Attenborough, D. 1995. The Private Life of Plants: A Natural History of Plant Behavior. London: BBC Books. 320 p.

Seeds dispersed over long distances: Anisoptera tree

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