Antifungal versus antibacterial defence of insect wings

Hypothesis: The ability exhibited by insect wings to resist microbial infestation is a unique feature developed over 400 million years of evolution in response lifestyle and environmental pressures. self-cleaning antimicrobial properties may be attributed the combination nanoscale structures found on wing surface. Experiments: In this study, we characterised wetting characteristics superhydrophobic damselfly Calopteryx haemorrhoidalis wings. We revealed details air entrapment at micro- nano scales surfaces using spectroscopic electron microscopic techniques. Cryo-focused-ion-beam scanning microscopy was used directly observe fungal spores conidia that were unable cross air–liquid interface. By contrast, bacterial cells able air–water interface ruptured upon attachment nanopillar robustness entrapment, thus antifungal behaviour, demonstrated after 1-week water immersion. A newly model confirmed strict Cassie-Baxter regime when are immersed water. Findings: provide evidence surface topography serves both via dual action: repulsion while simultaneously killing direct contact. These findings will play an important role guiding fabrication biomimetic, anti-fouling exhibit bactericidal anti-fungal properties.