LEARNING FASCINATING FACTS ABOUT THE SHARK'S SKIN

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The skin of sharks have a very unique structure and some remarkable properties and features which no doubt gives evidence of a creator and has long captivated and intrigued scientists and researchers over the world.

Existing over millions of years ago, shark skin exhibits several fascinating features that contribute to their survival, success and their maintaining a high position in the food chain in their aquatic environments.

Here are some of the fascinating features of the shark skin that I thought to share with you all, so please ride with me on this journey to learn at least four of the fascinating properties of the shark skin.

ANTI BACTERIAL MECHANISM

The shark skin was created with the possession of inherent antibacterial properties, scientist say this anti bacterial mechanism is attributed to the presence of unique surface chemistry and specialized glandular secretions.

Studies have also shown that certain species of sharks show or exhibit a kind of resistance to bacterial infestation and infection, even in environments that are abundantly filled or teeming with microbial pathogens.

Researchers have also found and identified antimicrobial peptides and bioactive compounds in the mucus of the skin of the shark which they believe contributes to its ability to repel these harmful bacteria and maintain a healthy skin.

The power of these natural antibacterial properties if properly utilized and harnessed could lead to the development of new antimicrobial agents, wound dressings, and medical coatings to combat antibiotic resistant infections and even promote tissue regeneration, how cool is that?

DERMAL DENTICLES

At the heart of the shark's skin lies a sophisticated network of dermal denticles, they are small tooth like structures that cover the shark's entire body, these denticles are made of or composed of dentin and enamel like material, arranged in a series of overlapping scales.

The geometry and texture of the dermal denticles are not just like that for no reason at all but rather they serve multiple functions, including hydrodynamic efficiency, reduced drag, and enhanced maneuverability which comes handy in its search for food.

By disrupting the turbulent flow of water and minimizing friction as water passes over the shark's body, dermal denticles enable sharks to swim faster and more efficiently than many of the other aquatic creatures in its environ.

RIBLET STRUCTURES

The surface of the shark skin features micro ridges known as riblet structures, which apart from the dermal denticles also further enhances the sharks hydrodynamic properties, these riblets are like microscopic grooves, measuring just a few micrometers in width, align in the direction of water flow and reduce skin friction by creating a boundary layer of slow moving water.

The riblet structures are also a very unique aspect of the shark's skin seeing as they effectively decrease drag, allowing sharks to glide effortlessly and seamlessly through the water with minimal energy, hence one can say they facilitate energy efficiency.

Inspired by this natural design, engineers have been moved to develop a biomimetic surfaces with riblet structures for applications in machines such as aircraft wings, ship hulls, and swimming suits, aiming to improve and enhance efficiency and performance in fluid dynamics.

SELF CLEANING MECHANISM

I bet you didn't know that the shark skin exhibits self cleaning abilities, well it does, thanks to its unique surface texture and chemical composition also the rough texture of dermal denticles and riblet structures prevents the compiling and accumulation of debris, algae, and biofouling organisms on the shark's skin surface.

Additionally, the antimicrobial properties of shark skin mucus discourage the growth of bacteria and microorganisms, this also further reduces the need for external cleaning mechanisms.

This self cleaning mechanism enables sharks to maintain optimal hydrodynamic performance and skin health even in very challenging marine environments such as environments with high levels of biological activity and environmental pollutants.

CONCLUSION

The skin of sharks embodies a marvel of creation and gives praise to its creator, featuring a combination of unique features that optimize hydrodynamic performance, reduce drag, resist bacterial colonization, facilitate self cleaning.

By studying and emulating the design principles of shark skin, scientists, engineers, and innovators have unlocked new possibilities and opportunities in fields ranging from fluid dynamics and materials science to medicine.