Loading...
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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.) | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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) | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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.) | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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.) | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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) | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Modify > | |
| Modify physical state > | |
| Material characteristics | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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) | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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) | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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) | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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.) | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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.) | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
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 | |
| Biomimetic Application Ideas | |
|
> Visit strategy page
Chemistry Strategies
Featured (strategies)
Rainforest habitat (strategies)
Stay Warm (strategies)
NYSERDA Energy (products)
Cooling Down (strategies)






