Sharkskin swimsuit. Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of the surface of a swimsuit designed to reduce drag in the water by mimicking the skin of a shark. A shark's skin has tiny V- shaped ridges which decrease water turbulence (and thus drag) as water flows over it. This material has been designed with similar ridges which greatly reduce the drag of a swimmer. Body suits made of this material can significantly improve the performance of professional swimmers. Magnification: x22 at 6x7cm size. x25 at 6x9cm size.