AskNature

The footpads of mammals maintain functional integrity as body mass increases through changes in geometry and material properties.

The waterbear survives extreme environmental conditions by entering a reversibly suspended metabolic state known as cryptobiosis.

Hydrostatic structures found in sunflowers and many other organisms serve various functions but almost always use helical fibers as reinforcement.

The skin of the marble berry has a bright blue pointillist appearance due to distinct reflection of color on layers of cellulose microfibrils.

A slight rise in humidity triggers pine cones to curl up their scales to prevent ineffective seed dispersal in wet weather.

The large ears of the jackrabbit are used in cooling, radiating heat via an extensive network of blood vessels.

Bees and wasps build space-efficient and strong nests using hexagonal cells.

Leaves of the sensitive plant protect themselves from predators and environmental conditions by folding in response to touch.

Parasitic fungus secretes behavior-modifying chemicals into cicadas that dramatically changes their sex drive.

By absorbing the sun’s blue and red light, chlorophyll loses electrons, which become mobile forms of chemical energy that power plant growth.

The respiratory system of birds facilitates efficient exchange of carbon dioxide and oxygen by using air sacs to maintain a continuous unidirectional airflow through the lungs.

Camel fur and sweat glands combine to form a powerful temperature management system.

Wetland plants, bacteria, and the physical environment work together to remove particles and pollutants  

Wings of penguins reduce heat loss by forming a countercurrent heat exchanger via the vascular design.

Tree canopies avoid wind damage by changing shape to become more aerodynamic.

Volatile compounds found in oregano destroy fungi by breaking down their cell membranes.

Oysters build strong but flexible reefs using minerals in a sticky protein web.

Micro-bubbles released from the Emperor penguin’s feathers act as a natural turbo boost, creating a lubrication layer around its body that reduces drag and enhances the bird's aquatic speed, propelling it from water to ice with graceful efficiency.