Introduction: Surface Properties and their Functions in Biological Systems

Abstract

Biological surfaces represent the interface between living organisms and the environment and serve many different functions. (1) They may delimit dimensions, often give the shape to organism, and provide mechanical stability to the body. (2) They are barriers against dry, wet, cold or hot environments. (3) They take part in respiration and in the transport of diverse secretions, and serve as a chemical reservoir for the storage of metabolic waste products. (4) A variety of specialised surface structures are parts of mechano- and chemoreceptors. (5) Optical properties may contribute to thermoregulation and the physical coloration pattern is often involved in diverse communication systems. (6) A number of specialised surface structures may serve a variety of other functions, such as air retention, food grinding, body cleaning, etc. (Gorb 2005).