Rolling into a ball for protection: armadillo

Armadillos and other creatures protect themselves from predators by rolling into a ball and reducing their surface area.

Biomimicry Taxonomy

	Maintain physical integrity >
	Protect from biotic factors >
	Animals

Biomimetic Application Ideas

Renewable energy systems that can close up when storms or other threats are present.

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[Collapse all sections] Summary

"Many larger creatures recognize the value of having the least possible surface area. Rolling into a ball is a simple but effective form of defence, used by creatures as diverse as the woodlouse, the hedgehog, and the armadillo. The economy of shape is made even more effective by adding some form of flexible armour-plating on the surface of the sphere. All the vulnerable and vital organs and limbs are tucked away inside the protective casing, presenting a predator with a frustrating ball game instead of a meal." (Foy and Oxford Scientific Films 1982:21)

About the inspiring organism

Dasypodidae
Dasypodidae

Organism/taxonomy data provided by:
Species 2000 & ITIS Catalogue of Life: 2008 Annual Checklist

Bioinspired products and application ideas

Application Ideas: Renewable energy systems that can close up when storms or other threats are present.

Industrial Sector(s) interested in this strategy: Renewable energy

References

Foy, Sally; Oxford Scientific Films. 1982. The Grand Design: Form and Colour in Animals. Lingfield, Surrey, U.K.: BLA Publishing Limited for J.M.Dent & Sons Ltd, Aldine House, London. 238 p.

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