Walking on water

Figure 1. Microphysics enables water walking. (a) Surface tension serves as a trampoline that supports the weight of small water walkers, such as this fisher spider. Note the beaded drops on the spider’s water-repellent coat. (b) By releasing a lipid, this Microvelia generates a surface-tension difference that propels it forward. (c) Some insects, like this Hydrometra, can climb a meniscus by clasping it with the hydrophilic claws on its front and hind legs. (d) During times of flood, fire ants assemble into a floating, water-repellent raft.