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Abstract Geckos are remarkable in their ability to reversibly adhere to smooth vertical, and even inverted surfaces. However, unraveling the precise mechanisms by which geckos do this has been a long process, involving various approaches over the last two centuries. Our understanding of the principles by which gecko adhesion operates has advanced rapidly over the past 20 years and, with this knowledge, material scientists have attempted to mimic the system to create artificial adhesives. From a biological perspective, recent studies have examined the diversity in morphology, performance, and real-world use of the adhesive apparatus. However, the lack of multidisciplinarity is likely a key roadblock to gaining new insights. Our goals in this paper are to 1) present a historical review of gecko adhesion research, 2) discuss the mechanisms and morphology of the adhesive apparatus, 3) discuss the origin and performance of the system in real-world contexts, 4) discuss advancement in bio-inspired design, and 5) present grand challenges in gecko adhesion research. To continue to improve our understanding, and to more effectively employ the principles of gecko adhesion for human applications, greater intensity and scope of interdisciplinary research are necessary. 

Abstract Gekkotan lizards of the genusHemidactylusexhibit derived digital morphologies. These include heavily reduced antepenultimate phalanges of digits III and IV of the manus and digits III–V of the pes, as well as enigmatic cartilaginous structures called paraphalanges. Despite this well‐known morphological derivation, no studies have investigated the development of these structures. We aimed to determine if heterochrony underlies the derived antepenultimate phalanges ofHemidactylus. Furthermore, we aimed to determine if convergently evolved paraphalanges exhibit similar or divergent developmental patterns. Herein we describe embryonic skeletal development in the hands and feet of four gekkonid species, exhibiting a range of digital morphologies. We determined that the derived antepenultimate phalanges ofHemidactylusare the products of paedomorphosis. Furthermore, we found divergent developmental patterns between convergently evolved paraphalanges.