The hidden purpose behind wrinkly fingers in water
Image credit: a_kehmeier via Unsplash
Fingers that wrinkle after being submerged in water may seem like a strange reaction, but research suggests this response offers real benefits. Scientists believe that water-induced wrinkling improves grip on wet or slippery surfaces, acting like tire treads to channel water away and enhance traction. This evolutionary adaptation could have helped our ancestors gather food and navigate wet environments more effectively, revealing a surprising purpose behind a common phenomenon.
Source
Kareklas K, Nettle D, Smulders TV. Water-induced finger wrinkles improve handling of wet objects. Biol Lett. 2013 Jan 8;9(2):20120999. doi: 10.1098/rsbl.2012.0999. PMID: 23302867; PMCID: PMC3639753.
Additional Reading
https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/why-do-our-fingers-and-toes-wrinkle-during-a-bath/
https://www.science.org/content/article/wrinkles-help-fingers-get-grip