Currently, the scientists are working with Fearing at Berkeley to design and fabricate synthetic gecko setae. We will now see if we can fabricate the gecko hair to produce the first dry, self-cleaning glue. The scientists are also working with IS Robotics in Boston to design tiny robots that can climb on walls and even upside down. Because geckos treat an obstacle like any other surface and crawl right over it, gecko robots might be useful in search and rescue missions. The diverse gecko, with its 850 species, has a worldwide range.
Most species are nocturnal, effective climbers and energy efficient.