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Secretion repels mosquitoes: gaur

The skin of the gaur deters landing and feeding by mosquitoes by secreting an oily substance, a novel 18-carbon acid.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Maintain physical integrity >
	Protect from biotic factors >
	Animals

Glue protects from insect bites: burrowing frog

The skin of Australian frogs of the genus Notaden protects from insect bites via a secreted glue, which gums up insect mouthparts.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Move or stay put >
	Attach >
	Permanently

Metabolites make wood durable: Bagassa guianensis tree

Tissues of the Bagassa guianensis tree increase its durability due to the presence of metabolites called stilbenoids.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Maintain physical integrity >
	Protect from biotic factors >
	Microbes

Peptide regenerates tooth growth: human

Teeth of humans regenerate due to a peptide, P 11-4, that forms into fibers that attract calcium and causes generation of minerals from within.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Maintain physical integrity >
	Protect from biotic factors >
	Microbes

Bacteria reduce iron oxide: Shewanella oneidensis

Shewanella oneidensis bacteria attach to and reduce iron oxide in anaerobic conditions via the work of two proteins.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Modify >
	Modify chemical/electrical state >
	Oxidation state

Protein binds: flesh-eating bacteria

A protein in the flesh-eating bacteria binds to human cells to allow invasion by having a 3D structure stabilized by an additional covalent bond.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Move or stay put >
	Attach >
	Permanently

Protein directs silica growth: diatom

Membrane-bound vesicles in diatoms build the organism's mineral shell by secreting proteins that template the design and trigger silica deposition.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Make >
	Chemically assemble >
	Mineral crystals

Compounds disrupt malaria parasite: red macroalgae

Bromophycolide compounds in the Fijian red seaweed provide protection against malaria by interrupting the parasite's ability to protect itself from toxic byproducts.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Maintain physical integrity >
	Protect from biotic factors >
	Microbes

Membranes make and manage fats and oils in a water-based environment: cells

Lipid membranes in living cells facilitate non-polar chemistry in an aqueous environment by forming microscopic spaces friendly to fat-soluble compounds.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Modify >
	Modify chemical/electrical state >
	Solubility

Teeth are strong and resilient: chiton

The teeth of chitons resist cracking because of the highly ordered, submicroscopic architecture that features a partnership between hard mineral crystals and fibers.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Maintain physical integrity >
	Manage structural forces >
	Mechanical wear

Chemicals signals used for quorum sensing: bacteria

Sophisticated built-in systems in bacteria release simple chemical compounds to communicate local population density thresholds.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Process information >
	Sense signals/environmental cues >
	Chemicals (odor, taste, etc.)

Chemical defenses protect from parasites: tobacco

The leaves of tobacco protect from parasitic insects by releasing a chemical signal, inducing production in adjacent cells of a compound toxic to invertebrates.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Maintain physical integrity >
	Protect from biotic factors >
	Animals

Glass skeletons are tough yet flexible: Venus flower basket

The glass skeleton of the Venus' flower basket is strong and flexible due to the protein-mediated formation of layers of nanoscale silica spheres made up of even smaller nanoscale silica beads.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Make >
	Chemically assemble >
	Mineral crystals

Proteins facilitate iron (III) reduction: Shewanella bacteria

The cell membranes of Shewanella bacteria living in oxygen-free environments allow minerals to do the electro-chemical work of oxygen via a series of membrane-bound iron-reducing proteins.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Modify >
	Modify chemical/electrical state >
	Chemically generate flow of electrons (redox)

Nephrons separate and recycle resources: human kidney

Nephrons of human kidneys efficiently separate and recycle vital ions, carbohydrates, proteins, and water by utilizing semipermeable membranes lining tubes that pass through areas of varying salt content.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Get, store, or distribute resources >
	Capture, absorb, or filter >
	Chemical entities

Chaperonins correct misfolded proteins: human cells

Chaparonins in human cells rehabilitate misfolded proteins by capturing them in confined spaces causing them to unfold, giving them a second chance at refolding into their properly functioning, three-dimensional configuration.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Maintain physical integrity >
	Regulate physiological processes >
	Cellular processes

Cells produce polyester: bacteria

Bacterial cells produce polyester granuals in water at ambient temperature and pressure via enzymatic self-assembly.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Make >
	Chemically assemble >
	Polymers

Leaf cuticle allows select chemicals to pass: English ivy

The cuticle on the surface of leaves create a smart barrier by having selective permeability to both hydrophobic and hydrophillic molecules.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Get, store, or distribute resources >
	Capture, absorb, or filter >
	Chemical entities

Plants starve caterpillars: tomato

Leaves of tomatoes ward off parasitic caterpillars by secreting an enzyme that breaks down a key nutrient in the caterpillar larvae's gut.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Break down >
	Chemically break down >
	Catalyze chemical reactions

Lysosomes recycle protein building blocks: human cells

Lysosomes in human cells recycle amino acid building blocks by capturing and breaking down malfunctioning proteins.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Break down >
	Chemically break down >
	Polymers

Cuticle matrix tunes tissue elasticity: thistle

The cuticle of the thistle plant controls its degree of elasticity by regulating the degree of hydration of constituent trihydroxy fatty acids compounds.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Modify >
	Modify physical state >
	Material characteristics

Cells undertake calcification in freshwater: common pond snail

The cells of the freshwater common pond snail maintain critical calcium-dependent processes at times of low calcium ion availability by driving out hydrogen ions generated from carbon dioxide hydration to "push" calcium ions into the cell.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Make >
	Chemically assemble >
	Mineral crystals

Transmembrane protein takes the temperature: bacillus

The bacterium, Bacillus subtilis, senses temperature changes and adjusts chemical activity accordingly by placing a protein across its cell membrane that changes shape as membrane thickness changes with temperature.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Process information >
	Sense signals/environmental cues >
	Temperature

Scavenging reactive species: bdelloid rotifer

Bdelloid rotifers are resistant to ionizing radiation due to enhanced capacity for scavenging destructive radiation-induced molecules before they have a chance to cause damage.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Modify >
	Modify chemical/electrical state >
	Free radical reactivity

Protein turns nanoparticles into crystals: chicken egg shells

Eggshells of chickens are formed from amorphous calcium carbonate nanoparticles which are transformed into ordered crystals by protein mediation.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Make >
	Chemically assemble >
	Mineral crystals

Cells temporarily self-repair ruptures: ficus tree

Cells in the bark of ficus trees temporarily repair ruptures by secreting latex into the wound site which cures upon exposure to air.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Maintain physical integrity >
	Manage structural forces >
	Tension

Mineralized jaws resist abrasion: bloodworm

Jaws of blood worms are hard and wear resistant due to stratified composites containing precise configurations of proteins and two forms of copper.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Maintain physical integrity >
	Manage structural forces >
	Mechanical wear

Smoke detection induces seed germination: Grand Rapids lettuce

Seeds of Grand Rapids lettuce germinate upon exposure to smoke containing even small amounts of compounds called karrikinolides.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Maintain physical integrity >
	Regulate physiological processes >
	Reproduction or growth

Compounds from symbiotic bacterial kill pathogens: hoopoe bird

The uropygial glands of hoopoe birds contain a symbiotic bacteria that secrete antiseptics targeted at feather-eating bacteria.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Maintain physical integrity >
	Protect from biotic factors >
	Microbes

Micro-compartment converts carbon dioxide: cyanobacteria

Carbonic anhydrases in cyanobacteria interconvert CO2 and bicarbonate by entrapping proteins in confined micro-compartment.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Break down >
	Chemically break down >
	Catalyze chemical reactions

Secretion solubilizes oils and water: Cladosporium resinae fungus

Compounds secreted by Cladosporium resinae act as surfactants by self-assembling into a wide variety of 3-D configurations tailor-made for different circumstances when water and oil need to mix.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Modify >
	Modify chemical/electrical state >
	Solubility

Water channels prevent cellular rupture: Staphylococcus aureus

Proteins embedded in the membranes of Staphylococcus aureus bacteria open up to form relief channels in response to extreme internal water pressure.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Modify >
	Modify physical state >
	Pressure

Air and water repellant surface prevents entry of fluids: Bacillus subtilis

Biofilm colonies of Bacillus subtilis are highly water and gas repellant due to a combination of chemical composition and nano-scale topography.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Maintain physical integrity >
	Protect from abiotic factors >
	Excess liquids

Silk is strong, stretchy: Darwin's bark spider

Silk of the Darwin's bark spider is twice as strong as other spider silk due to extreme extensibility combined with high strength.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Maintain physical integrity >
	Manage structural forces >
	Tension

Metalloproteins catalyze a wide range of biochemical reactions: Pyrococcus furiosus archaea

Proteins produced by the bacteria Pyrococcus furiosus contain metal atoms that enable the proteins to catalyze important chemical reactions.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Make >
	Chemically assemble >
	Metal-based compounds

Biocatalysts lead to natural polyesters: Ralstonia eutropha bacteria

Enzymes secreted by Ralstonia eutropha bacteria mediate the production of a host of natural, biodegradable polyesters from basic nutrients.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Make >
	Chemically assemble >
	Polymers

Antennae detect odors: dampwood termite

Odor-binding proteins on the antennae of dampwood termites mediate the transport of odoriferous chemicals to the olfactory nerves by encapsulating the hydrophobic scent chemicals in a water soluble coating.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Process information >
	Sense signals/environmental cues >
	Chemicals (odor, taste, etc.)

Microcopic "skeletons" support cellular structure and movement: amoeba

Cytoskeletons of an amoeba changes properties quickly by varying cross-links of actin polymer filaments in response to changing environmental cues.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Modify >
	Modify physical state >
	Material characteristics

Eye lens proteins adapted for clarity in extreme cold: Antarctic toothfish

The eye lens of the Antarctic toothfish avoids cold-cataracts at temperatures cold enough to freeze sea water by maintaining the right concentration of three isoforms of crytallin proteins.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Maintain physical integrity >
	Protect from abiotic factors >
	Temperature

Compounds in tissues prevent infection: hybrid striped bass

Cells of the hybrid striped bass fight fungal infection with peptides that punch hydrophilic holes in the cell membranes of infectious microorganism.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Maintain physical integrity >
	Protect from biotic factors >
	Fungi

Wax esters allow for changes in buoyancy: Calanoides acutus zooplankton

A vacuole inside the Antarctic marine zooplankton Calanoides acutus changes its density and buoyancy by having a wax ester that changes from a liquid to a solid at the cold temperatures.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Modify >
	Modify physical state >
	Buoyancy

Receptors guide bacterial navigation: Escherichia coli

Outer membranes of Escherichia coli cells direct the cell toward food using "taste" receptor protein clusters that send signals to the motor proteins of the flagella.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Process information >
	Sense signals/environmental cues >
	Chemicals (odor, taste, etc.)

Metalloproteinase inhibitors block snake venom enzymes: Virginia opossum

The sera of Virginia opossum avoid toxic reactions to snake venom by containing compounds that block the key enzymes in the venom.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Maintain physical integrity >
	Protect from biotic factors >
	Animals

Pili direct electron transfer: Geobacter

Surface of living bacteria aids in direct electron transfer through use of network of nanofilaments (pili) that conduct electricity.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Modify >
	Adapt/optimize >
	Adapt genotype

Non-polar compounds facilitate movement of chemicals: Ardistomis schaumii beetle

Defense chemicals secreted by Ardistomis schaumii beetles can pass directly through the exoskeletons of their foes with the aid of special solvents.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Modify >
	Modify chemical/electrical state >
	Solubility

Exopolymers increase microbial habitability in sea-ice: diatoms

Antarctic and Arctic ice diatoms maintain a liquid marine environment by secreting ice-binding proteins that modify surface morphology of crystallizing ice.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Modify >
	Modify physical state >
	Phase

Calcium oxalate formation sequesters carbon dioxide: saguaro cactus

Cacti sequester atmospheric carbon dioxide by converting it to oxalate and combining it with soil-derived calcium ions which ultimately lead to the formation of solid calcium carbonate.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Get, store, or distribute resources >
	Capture, absorb, or filter >
	Chemical entities

A non-toxic foam secretion prevents predation: pine spittlebug

Excrement from pine spittlebug nymphs repels predatory ants when the nymphs engulf themselves in a foam derived from their feces.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Make >
	Physically assemble >
	Structure

Symbiosis enables growth in salty soil: berseem clover

A symbiotic relationship with fungi allows Berseem clovers to grow more healthily in salty soil due to the fungi's arbuscular mycorrhiza network that controls the uptake and distribution of salt ions.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Maintain physical integrity >
	Protect from abiotic factors >
	Chemicals

Proton pump acts as mechanism of hyperacidification: lemon

The inner space of lemon fruit sacs are hyperacidified by the action of proton-pumping enzymes associated with the otherwise semipermeable outer cell membrane.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Modify >
	Modify chemical/electrical state >
	pH

Transport processes allow arsenic hyperaccumulation: Chinese brake fern

The Chinese brake fern absorbs and transports toxic arsenic from roots to fronds via cellular transport channels.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Modify >
	Modify chemical/electrical state >
	Oxidation state

Honey protects from bacterial invasion: honey bee

Pollen from the Manuka tree produces honey that stops infections from methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) by blocking a key stage in its cell division.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Maintain physical integrity >
	Protect from biotic factors >
	Microbes

Venom destroys fungi: thick-tailed scorpion

The venom of the thick-tailed scorpion protect it from fungal parasites by containing antifungal, antimicrobial proteins that work synergistically when applied to its own body.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Maintain physical integrity >
	Protect from biotic factors >
	Fungi

Self-assembling surfaces enable growth: split gill fungus

Hydrophobins produced by the split gill fungus protect surfaces by self-assembling into a highly water-repellent layer when exposed to an air-water interface.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Modify >
	Modify chemical/electrical state >
	Solubility

Cellular structure allows for growth under extreme pressure: Aspergillus ustus mold

The hyphae of Aspergillus ustus mold can function and grow at more than 1000 m below sea level by adopting a micro-spherical shape.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Maintain physical integrity >
	Manage structural forces >
	Compression

Biochemical pathways enable the use of caffeine as a feedstock: Pseudomonas putida

The digestive process used by Pseudomonas putida bacteria break down caffeine and similar organic compounds using enzymes that cleave methyl groups.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Break down >
	Chemically break down >
	Other organic compounds

Secreted chemicals repel and confuse predators: sea hare

Glands in sea hares secrete two compounds that protect the organism from predators by reacting together to create an unpalatable mixture of hydrogen peroxide and organic chemicals.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Make >
	Chemically assemble >
	On demand

Silica structure self-assembles: sponge

Cell clusters associated with the surface of the giant basal growing spicule of the hexactinellid sponge release silica for controlled circumferential growth.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Make >
	Chemically assemble >
	Mineral crystals

Proteins crystalize minerals, kill bacteria: Chinese softshell turtle

The eggshells of the Chinese softshell turtles are both strong and antimicrobial due to the production of a single protein, pelovaterin.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Make >
	Chemically assemble >
	Mineral crystals

Cartilage proteins dissipate forces and cushion joints: cow

Cartilage in the joints of cows protect from compressive forces due to repulsion between negative charges of cartilage molecules, as well as attractive forces between these same molecules near the peak of the compressive force.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Maintain physical integrity >
	Manage structural forces >
	Compression

Biopolymer composites in exoskeleton prevents structural failure: black coral

The exterior shells of black coral are strong and hard due to a composite material of chitin strands in conjunction with crosslinking proteins.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Make >
	Chemically assemble >
	Polymers

Cascade reactions synthesize ladder polyethers: red algae dinoflagellates

The red algae dinoflagellate, Karenia brevis, converts a chain of epoxide rings into compounds with a repeating ladder-like design using water as a promoter.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Make >
	Chemically assemble >
	Catalyze chemical reactions

Enzymes catalyze reversible reactions: Micromonospora echinospora bacteria

Glycosyltransferase enzymes produced by Micromonospora echinospora bacteria reversibly catalyze complex organic reactions between sugars and other molecules.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Make >
	Chemically assemble >
	Organic compounds

Photosynthetic systems rapidly disassembles and reforms: Rhodobacter sphaeroides

Damaged sections of photosynthetic protein complexes in plants and bacteria are repaired via an internal cellular system of recognition, removal, and repair.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Break down >
	Chemically break down >
	Polymers

Proteins share iron: Crocosphaera watsonii cyanobacteria

Marine cyanobacteria, Crocosphaera watsonii, doubles the effectiveness of a critical, but scarce nutrient by serially sharing the nutrient between two key processes.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Modify >
	Adapt/optimize >
	Adapt phenotype

Chemical reception discourages taxis: woodlice

Woodlice reduce risk by avoiding dead and dying members of their own species via chemical signals they release.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Process information >
	Process signals >
	Respond to signals

Organic composite is exceptionally robust: jumbo squid

The beaks of jumbo squid have exceptional hardness and stiffness in part thanks to composites of chitin strands cemented in layers by crosslinked proteins and catechols with varying degrees of hydration.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Make >
	Chemically assemble >
	Polymers

Bioluminescent proteins reduce solar damage: Vibrio harveyi bacterium

Vibrio harveyi bacteria protect themselves from the damaging effects of UV radiation by channeling the UV energy to bioluminescent proteins.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Maintain physical integrity >
	Protect from abiotic factors >
	Light

Leaves protect from pathogens: thale cress

Leaves of thale cress protect the plant from pathogenic microorganisms by interrupting the cellular signals that otherwise keep the stoma open and vulnerable to bacterial invasion.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Process information >
	Sense signals/environmental cues >
	Disease

Venom induces paralysis in prey: cone snail

Conus victoriae cone snails catch food by injecting a potent venom that renders prey paralyzed.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Get, store, or distribute resources >
	Capture, absorb, or filter >
	Organisms

Crystalization detoxifies heme: malaria parasite

The malaria parasite, Plasmodium falciparum, detoxifies heme generated from digestion of its host's blood by coalescing the toxin into a harmless crystal.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Make >
	Chemically assemble >
	Mineral crystals

β-carotene protects from solar radiation: Dunaliella salina algae

Dunaliella salina algae protect themselves from the effects of solar ultraviolet radiation by producing immense quantities of β-carotene to quench the damaging effects of reactive oxygen radicals.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Maintain physical integrity >
	Protect from abiotic factors >
	Light

Biofoam protects even at very cold temperatures: buriti palm

A spongy, light weight, biodegradable foam produced by buriti palms remains elastic, rather than brittle at very low temperatures.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Maintain physical integrity >
	Prevent structural failure >
	Fracture (rupture)

Biopolymer secretions serve numerous life-supporting functions: Everglades periphyton communities

Extracellular polymeric substances produced by communities of algae and bacteria provide functions such as movement and stability using primarily a mixture of different carbohydrate building blocks with additions of proteins.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Make >
	Chemically assemble >
	Polymers

Durable adhesive traps prey: flypaper plant

Traps of the flypaper plant capture prey via a super sticky, superbly water repellant, long lasting, adhesive.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Move or stay put >
	Attach >
	Permanently

Viscoelastic mucus enables locomotion: banana slug

The foot of a banana slug generates a propulsive force against surfaces via mucus secretions that act as both a lubricant and an adhesive.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Move or stay put >
	Move >
	In/on solids

Enzymes catalyze cellulose breakdown at high temperatures: hyperthermophillic archaeabacteria

Enzymes produced by extremophile archaeabacteria can catalyze the breakdown of cellulose to glucose because they continue to function even under extremely hot, salty conditions.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Break down >
	Chemically break down >
	Polymers

Numerous biochemical pathways enable independent life: Desulforudis audaxviator bacterium

The extremophile, Desulforudis audaxviator, produce all essential amino acids by developing unique methods of fixing both carbon and nitrogen.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Make >
	Chemically assemble >
	Organic compounds

Chemoattractants recruit symbiotic soil bacteria: maize

The roots of maize defend against phytopathogens by releasing a pesticide that also attracts a beneficial microbe that preys on the target pest.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Maintain physical integrity >
	Protect from biotic factors >
	Microbes

Chaotropic molecules prevents from low temperature: Eurotium herbariorum fungus

Eurotium herbariorum can survive at low temperatures by producing water-soluble molecules that act as lubricants to ensure proper function of biological compounds.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Maintain physical integrity >
	Protect from abiotic factors >
	Temperature

Enyzme complexes "burn" hydrocarbons for energy: Pseudomonas putida bacteria

Membrane-bound enzymes produced by the bacteria Pseudomonas putida produce energy from trapped hydrocarbon-based substrates by producing oxygen free radicals that break down the substrates.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Break down >
	Chemically break down >
	Catalyze chemical reactions

Plant cells transform and sequester selenium compounds: prince's plume mustard

Cells in the leaves of the prince's plume mustard protect it from toxic organic selenium by detoxifying and sequestering it at the edges of its leaves where it performs a pest control function.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Modify >
	Modify chemical/electrical state >
	Oxidation state

Metal-free beaks are strong: jewel beetle

The mandibles of the larval jewel beetle are as hard as some stainless steels by sheathing chitin fibers in protein and cross-linking.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Maintain physical integrity >
	Manage structural forces >
	Mechanical wear

Bacteria cooperate to survive: Pelotomaculum thermopropionicum

Pelotomaculum thermopropionicum bacteria gets its energy from alchohols in a reaction that normally requires an input of energy by forming communities with methanogenic archaeabacteria.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Break down >
	Chemically break down >
	Catalyze chemical reactions

Secreted protein manipulate the formation of ice: Melosira arctica algae

Proteins secreted by the algae Melosira arctica ensure optimal conditions for survival inside watery bubbles in this extremely cold environment by manipulating the formation of ice around the bubble.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Modify >
	Modify physical state >
	Phase

Unique antifreeze protects from extreme cold: Alaskan darkling beetle

A sugar-based polymer produced by an Alaskan darkling beetle keeps cells from freezing in extreme cold temperatures by attaching to the cell membrane.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Maintain physical integrity >
	Protect from abiotic factors >
	Temperature

Catch-bonds hold on tighter when pulled apart: salmonella

Salmonella bacteria grip their host more tenaciously when pulled apart because complex adhesive proteins change their structure as stronger force is applied.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Maintain physical integrity >
	Manage structural forces >
	Tension

Microbial nanowires transfer electrons: Geobacter sulfurreducens

Geobacter species "breathe" minerals instead of oxygen by transferring electrons along protein nanowire "pilli" via "electron hopping".

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Modify >
	Modify chemical/electrical state >
	Electron transport

Capsid proteins self-assemble to form stable shell: virus

Capsids, the containers housing viral DNA, are stable, self-assembling structures because they rely on the net strength afforded by a combination of weak attractive or repulsive forces arising from the relative position of proteins making up the container

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Make >
	Physically assemble >
	Structure

Tissues are strong and resilient: mammals

Tissues in human organ systems are strong and resilient partly due to the presense of fibulins, a family of proteins that leverage calcium binding to form strong fibers in connective tissue composites.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
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	Modify physical state >
	Material characteristics

Unusual hemoglobin aids survival in high-CO2 burrows: eastern mole

Blood of the eastern mole is able to rid the body of large quantities of carbon dioxide because of amino acid substitutions in hemoglobin creating a salt bridge.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Modify >
	Modify chemical/electrical state >
	Chemical potential

Nitric oxide synthesis protects against oxidative stress: Bacillus subtilis bacterium

Bacillus subtilis defends itself against the damaging effects of oxidative free-radicals by synthesizing nitric oxide.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Maintain physical integrity >
	Protect from abiotic factors >
	Chemicals

Photovoltaic pigments aid biomineralization: Oriental hornet

The yellow pigments of an oriental hornet's cuticle generate electrical energy for biomineralization by absorbing ultraviolet radiation.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Get, store, or distribute resources >
	Capture, absorb, or filter >
	Energy

Peptides protect from fungal infection: African clawed frog

Peptides on the skin of African clawed frog protect from fungal infection by having a semiselective binding nature to bacterial pathogen cells affording each peptide the ability to bind to a variety of pathogens.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Maintain physical integrity >
	Protect from biotic factors >
	Microbes

Enzymes sulfoxidize toxic organosulfur: Agrocybe aegerita fungus

Enzymes produced by the mushroom-forming fungus Agrocybe aegerita break down toxic organosulfur compounds by catalyzing the oxidization of the sulfur-containing portion of the molecule.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Break down >
	Chemically break down >
	Other organic compounds

Saliva breaks down blood clots: vampire bats

The saliva of vampire bats acts as an anticoagulant due to a protein that inhibits Factor X, an enzyme involved in the coagulation pathway.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Break down >
	Chemically break down >
	Other organic compounds

Matrix produces strong structural materials: flax

Fibers produced by the flax plant provide strength by being extensively cross-linked composites of cellulose, pectin, and protein in a long, tube-like architecture.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Maintain physical integrity >
	Manage structural forces >
	Tension

Salt balance is maintained: pufferfish

The gills of spotted green pufferfish maintain a constant level of cellular salinity in both freshwater and marine environments due to specialized cells equipped with two ion channels that secrete or absorb ions depending on need.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Modify >
	Modify chemical/electrical state >
	Concentration

Protein complex guides nacre formation: pearl oyster

The protein, Pif, secreted by pearl oysters contributes to the strength and shape of the shell due to key amino acids that guide mineral crystal growth.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Make >
	Physically assemble >
	Structure

Enzymes cleave toxic quaternary ammonium compounds: Gliocladium roseum fungus

Enzymes produced by the fungus Gliocladium roseum mediate the break down of a common industrial compound by initiating the biodegredation process.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Break down >
	Chemically break down >
	Catalyze chemical reactions

Transport proteins respond to nutrient concentration: Aspergillus nidulans fungus

A transport protein in Aspergillus nidulans maintains the right concentration of nitrogen compounds within cells by actively responding to the presence of nutrient sources.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Maintain physical integrity >
	Regulate physiological processes >
	Cellular processes

Nematocyst stingers accelerate fast: Hydra

Nematocysts of some cnidarians can penetrate thick layers of crustacean shell by capsules of unusually short collagens that explosively eject stylets of strong and flexible protein tubules with spiked barbs.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Modify >
	Modify physical state >
	Speed

Choice of plant reduces parasite load: monarch butterfly

Monarch butterflies infected with parasites capable of infecting their offspring avoid transmission by selectively laying their eggs on plants containing therapeutic remedies.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Maintain physical integrity >
	Protect from biotic factors >
	Microbes

Magnesium substitution prevents cracks: sea snail

The egg capsule of a sea snail resists cracks due to substituting calcium with magnesium.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Maintain physical integrity >
	Prevent structural failure >
	Fracture (rupture)

Enzymes reduce toxicity of arsenic and selenium: Bacillus selenitireducens bacteria

Enzymes produced by Bacillus selenitireducens use molybdenum to lower the toxicity of dissolved, oxidized forms of arsenic and selenium.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Modify >
	Modify chemical/electrical state >
	Oxidation state

Enzymes reduce metal ions from sulfidic minerals: Metallosphaera sedula archaea

Enzymes produced by Metallosphaera sedula catalyze the reduction of metal ions from metal sulfates, sulfites, and sulfides to produce the elemental form of the metals.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Modify >
	Modify chemical/electrical state >
	Oxidation state

Enzymes bleach wood lignin: marine-fungus designate NIOCC #3

Enzymes produced by a marine fungus found on mangroves can "bleach" wood pulp by catalyzing the break down of lignin.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Break down >
	Chemically break down >
	Polymers

Biochemical pathways enable life: Syntrophus aciditrophicus bacterium

Waste products from Syntrophus aciditrophicus are rapidly turned back into the organism's energy source harsh, extremely resource-limited environments through symbiosis.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Modify >
	Modify chemical/electrical state >
	Chemically generate flow of electrons (redox)

Cell structures absorb and store pollutants: ryegrass

Non-polar regions of cells in Ryegrass remove relatively large quantities of toxic, oily industrial pollutants from the environment by absorbing them through roots and distributing them in cell walls and sequestered vacuoles.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Get, store, or distribute resources >
	Capture, absorb, or filter >
	Chemical entities

Photoreceptor proteins direct shade avoidance behavior: thale cress

Thale cress plants maximize photosynthetic activity by detecting changes in wavelengths of red and blue light associated with shade, triggering protein production to direct growth away from shaded areas.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Process information >
	Sense signals/environmental cues >
	Light - visible spectrum

Egg shells prevent microbial fouling: white dogwhelk

The egg shells of the white dogwhelk ward off microbial attack by covering themselves in regularly patterned nano-ridges that disrupt microbial attachment to the surface followed by oily antimicrobial droplets.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Maintain physical integrity >
	Protect from biotic factors >
	Microbes

Mucus filters trap particles smaller than mesh size: Pegea confoederata salp

The food filters of Pegea confoederata salps capture food smaller than its mesh size by optimizing the water flow through their continuously secreted sticky mucus net.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Get, store, or distribute resources >
	Capture, absorb, or filter >
	Organisms

Biochemical pathways reduce iron (III) for metabolism: Geobacter sulfurreducens bacteria

Outer membranes of Geobacter sulfurreducens incorporate electron-conducting protein filaments that transfer electrons generated by the digestion of food inside the cell to iron atoms outside the cell.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Modify >
	Modify chemical/electrical state >
	Oxidation state

Enzymes break down pesticides: honey bee

Enzymes produced by honey bees detoxify potentially harmful pyrethroid pesticide by breaking down the aromatic rings present in their structure.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Break down >
	Chemically break down >
	Catalyze chemical reactions

Biochemical pathways detoxify hexavalent chromium: Acidiphilium cryptum

Respiratory enzymes in Acidiphilium cryptum bacteria detoxify hexavalent chromium compounds even under highly acidic conditions by shuttling electrons from several sources.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Modify >
	Modify chemical/electrical state >
	Chemically generate flow of electrons (redox)

Skin glands accumulate protective toxins from prey: Eleutherodactylus orientalis

The tiny Cuban frog, Eleutherodactylus orientalis, protects itself from predators by consuming toxin-laden oribatid mites and sequestering the toxins in its skin.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Get, store, or distribute resources >
	Capture, absorb, or filter >
	Chemical entities

Bacterial enzymes produce hydrocarbons: Synechococcus elongatus cyanobacteria

Certain strains of the cyanobacteria Synechococcus elongatus produce enzymes that catalyze the synthesis of hydrocarbons from fatty acids.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Make >
	Chemically assemble >
	Organic compounds

Plant fragments prevent infections: blue tit chicks

Blue tit females protect their chicks from pathogenic bacteria by selectively placing fragments of certain aromatic plants in their nests.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Maintain physical integrity >
	Protect from biotic factors >
	Microbes

Semi-permeable skin selectively absorbs organic nutrients: Pacific hagfish

Skin cells of hagfish are capable of directly absorbing organic nutrients using specially adapted transport channels and leveraging sodium ion gradients.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Get, store, or distribute resources >
	Capture, absorb, or filter >
	Chemical entities

Chemicals reveal foes: carpenter ant

Carpenter ants identify intruders based on the scent of cuticular chemicals not present on nest-mates.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Process information >
	Sense signals/environmental cues >
	Chemicals (odor, taste, etc.)

Discharge trigger responds to fish's chemical cues: whirling disease parasite

The filament injection organ of Myxobolus cerebralis detects a potential fish host via receptors that recognize chemical compounds present in fish mucus.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Process information >
	Sense signals/environmental cues >
	Chemicals (odor, taste, etc.)

Mucous cocoon protects from predators: parrotfish

Glands of the parrotfish protect it from parasites and mask olfactory cues by secreting a mucous cocoon that surrounds the fish.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Maintain physical integrity >
	Protect from biotic factors >
	Animals

Defensive measures prevent toxicity of heavy metals: thale cress

Cells of thale cress protect themselves from dissolved heavy metals by releasing compounds that bind the metal ions or neutralize the destructive substances they spawn.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Maintain physical integrity >
	Protect from abiotic factors >
	Chemicals

Chemical sensing of predators determines egg-laying: Culiseta longiareolata mosquito

The moquito, Culiseta longiareolata, protects its offspring by sensing chemicals released by its predator, the backswimmer, Notonecta maculata, before laying its eggs.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Maintain physical integrity >
	Protect from biotic factors >
	Animals

Composites provide strength: jumbo squid

The beaks of jumbo squid are flexible near the body and stiff near the tip, as defined by varying degrees of water content in a composite of chitin nanofibrils infused with cross-linked proteins.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Maintain physical integrity >
	Manage structural forces >
	Tension

Thin liquid film allow adhesion: Colorado potato beetle

Tarsal structures of beetles adhere to plant surfaces by secreting lipids that are liquid at normal temperatures.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Move or stay put >
	Attach >
	Temporarily

Secretions protect from multiple organisms: pleasing fungus beetle

Glands of the pleasing fungus beetle kill microbes, deter predators and competitors by secreting volatile fluids.

Biomimicry Taxonomy
	Maintain physical integrity >
	Protect from biotic factors >
	Animals

Chemistry Strategies