Katydids shift to higher-stability gaits when climbing inclined substrates.

When terrestrial organisms locomote in natural settings, they must navigate complex surfaces that vary in incline angles and substrate roughness. Variable surface structures are common in arboreal environments and can be challenging to traverse. This study examines the walking gait of katydids (Tettigoniidae) as they traverse a custom-built platform with varying incline angles (30○, 45○, 60○, 75○, 90○) and substrate roughness (40, 120, and 320 grit sandpaper).

Katydids shift to higher-stability gaits when climbing inclined substrates.

When terrestrial organisms locomote in natural settings, they must navigate complex surfaces that vary in incline angles and substrate roughness. Variable surface structures are common in arboreal environments and can be challenging to traverse. This study examines the walking gait of katydids (Tettigoniidae) as they traverse a custom-built platform with varying incline angles (30○, 45○, 60○, 75○, 90○) and substrate roughness (40, 120, and 320 grit sandpaper).