The field of bio-inspired robotics at the air-water interface is rapidly advancing with the miniaturization of environmental sensing technologies. This evolution, characterized by developments like low-cost environmental DNA (eDNA) methods and integrated solid-state sensors, positions small-scale robotics as pivotal players in aquatic data collection. Recent studies have highlighted the limitations of current aquatic monitoring systems, which often rely on large, costly vehicles needing deployment from research vessels. The need for more extensive environmental sampling expands the scope beyond what a single, expensive agent can accomplish, posing significant questions regarding operational modes, range, and autonomy necessary for successful aquatic system monitoring.

This Research Topic aims to amalgamate advancements in mobile aquatic systems while pushing the boundaries of existing methodologies. The goal is to extend the physical limits and operational capabilities of robots, inspired by animals' exceptional ability to navigate both water and air environments. By focusing on autonomous mobility, experimental validation, and the development of innovative designs, such as those mimicking flying fish or Basilisk lizards, this research seeks to pioneer new technologies that directly address the limitations of current monitoring tools.

Key research focuses will include the following:

• Innovative and unconventional amphibious robot designs

• Amphibious locomotion and operations in challenging dynamic environments

• Novel sensing and data collection approaches

• Soft robots for minimal-impact operations

• Bio-inspired designs and hybrid, multi-modal robots

• Field testing in challenging environments

• Underwater navigation and energy-efficient mission planning

• Autonomous mission execution and novel application demonstrations

• Underwater navigation and sensing

We invite full research papers and survey papers.

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Bio-inspired Robots at the Air-Water Interface