Salp Locomotion Study May Revolutionize Underwater Robotics

University of Oregon researchers uncover unique jet propulsion techniques in salp colonies, offering new insights for efficient robot design.

Salps, gelatinous sea creatures, swim in coordinated corkscrew patterns using jet propulsion.
Researchers used specialized 3D cameras to study salp migration from ocean depths to the surface.
Findings highlight two swimming modes: spiral patterns for shorter colonies and helical swimming for longer chains.
The study suggests potential applications for designing silent, fuel-efficient underwater robots.
Published in Science Advances, the research opens new questions about the prevalence and advantages of helical swimming in marine organisms.