Abstract
The propulsion system of animals that fly or swim are quite different from each other in their morphology and function, yet the propulsive efficiency could be maximized by a surprising similarity in the fine tuning of flapping frequency, amplitude and forward speed, according to a new study by Taylor et A This conclusion was based on an analysis of the Strouhal number, which is a dynamic similarity index relevant to propulsion that relies on vortex shedding for thrust generation. Such fine-tuning of the propulsive system suggests possible consequences for physiological and ecological adaptations related to, for example muscle operating frequency and optimal speed of muscle contraction.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 217-219 |
| Journal | Trends in Ecology & Evolution |
| Volume | 19 |
| Issue number | 5 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - 2004 |
Subject classification (UKÄ)
- Biological Sciences