Limbs sacrificed to escape predators: crabs

The claw and other limbs of a crab assist escape because they can be shed and regenerated.

Biomimicry Taxonomy

	Maintain physical integrity >
	Protect from biotic factors >
	Animals

Biomimetic Application Ideas

Materials or systems that can "shed" some function under stress, possibly as a signal of deterioration, while retaining basic functionality; shedding materials once they have served their purpose; understanding the biochemistry of regeneration.

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[Collapse all sections] Summary

"In some invertebrates, autotomy can involve the loss of one or more legs. Crabs, for instance, are famous for sacrificing a claw if attacked by a predator, which they will then regrow. Indeed, they are willing to lose several of their limbs if necessary to avoid capture, though this willingness decreases markedly with each successive limb loss, for obvious reasons." (Shuker 2001:132)

About the inspiring organism

Decapoda
Decapoda

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

Bioinspired products and application ideas

Application Ideas: Materials or systems that can "shed" some function under stress, possibly as a signal of deterioration, while retaining basic functionality; shedding materials once they have served their purpose; understanding the biochemistry of regeneration.

Industrial Sector(s) interested in this strategy: Materials science, construction, medical

References

Shuker, KPN. 2001. The Hidden Powers of Animals: Uncovering the Secrets of Nature. London: Marshall Editions Ltd. 240 p.

Limbs sacrificed to escape predators: crabs

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