Hydrodynamic Characterization of the Polyodon spathula Rostrum Using CFD

Among the various functions of the paddlefish rostrum, it is also believed to serve as a stabilizer to counteract the downward force that would otherwise occur during the process of filter feeding. From its unique shape, it is hypothesized that the paddlefish rostrum serves to generate a substantial amount of lift that naturally occurs as the rostrum is elevated at the same time the fish opens its mouth. The present, numerical study is an attempt to quantify the amount of lift (and drag) that is generated by the rostrum of a juvenile paddlefish. Additionally, this data is compared with other hydrofoils. The results suggest that the paddlefish rostrum does indeed produce substantial lift at certain angles of attack. In fact, the results indicate that the amount of lift is comparable to that produced by a symmetric foil (NACA 0012).