What makes things sticky ?
Nature has many different ways to make things sticky. Sometimes things stick using hooks, suckers, or hairs. Other things stick using a sticky fluid or slime. Some plants produce fluids to catch insects that land on them.
Sticky ends
Tiny hairlike tentacles have blobs of sticky, sweet fluid on the end. Insects are attracted to the smell.
How else do things stickstick ?
Burrs
Some plants spread their seeds by using hooks to attach themselves to an animal’s fur. They fall off as the animal moves around.
Limpets
Limpets use a sticky fluid and a strong foot muscle to attach themselves to rocks. They twist and grind on the rock for a perfect fit.
Velcro
Velcro is a human-made material that has hooks on one side and loops on the other to stick and unstick things like shoes and coats. Unlike glue, which dries and hardens, it can be reused.
Pretend petals
The sticky leaves of the sundew plant are arranged to look like flower petals, which trick insects into visiting.
