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1001 Edit title

Profile PhotoKimberly ByrdMarch 9, 2020
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strategy

Quorum determines new hive sitehoneybees

Honeybees in a colony select a new hive location via quorum.

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Cooperate within the same species
strategy

Antennae detect a variety of signalsWestern Honeybee, Buff-tailed Bumblebee

The antennae of a bee allows it to sense a variety of signals including chemicals, light, vibrations, and electric fields.

Profile PhotoHolly Kerstiens
Cooperate within the same speciesSense chemicals (odor, taste, etc) from the environmentSense sound and other vibrations from the environment
strategy

Intricate relationship allows the other to flourishthe sea anemone and the clownfish

The relationship between the sea anemone and clownfish allows the other to flourish through symbiosis.

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CoevolveCooperate/compete between different speciesCoordinate systemsCycle nutrientsProtect from animalsProtect from microbes
strategy

Fire and bison grazing in grasslands lead to diversityGreat Plains mesic grasslands

The interaction of two disturbances—bison grazing patterns and fire—increases biodiversity by creating a heterogeneous patchwork of plant communities in grasslands.

Profile PhotoMegan Schuknecht
Maintain biodiversityManage disturbance in a community
strategy

Group organization protects from the coldemperor penguins

Groups of emperor penguins protect from the cold thanks to social huddling.

Profile PhotoShanley Lynne
Cooperate within the same speciesCoordinate by self-organizationProtect from temperature
strategy

Interacting organisms remove nutrients

Wetlands remove nutrients and sediments from water as plants, bacteria, and physical processes interact.

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Control erosion and sedimentCycle nutrientsDetoxification/purification of air/water/waste
strategy

Plant species diversity creates long-term stabilityprairie grasslands

Diverse plant species in prairie grasslands support a long-term, stable ecosystem because they exhibit complementary functionality.

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Maintain biodiversityManage disturbance in a community
strategy

Colonies self-organizesocial insects

Colonies of social insects self-organize and carry out complex group tasks through many simple individual interactions.

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Cooperate within the same speciesCoordinate activitiesCoordinate by self-organization
strategy

Nurse shrubs promote ecosystem regenerationMediterranean montane ecosystems

Pioneering nurse shrubs in Mediterranean montane forests promote ecosystem regeneration by increasing shade above ground and potassium below ground.

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Cooperate within an ecosystemDistribute solidsGenerate soil/renew fertilityManage disturbance in a communityRegulate climate
strategy

Parasite helps balance a mutualistic relationshipfig tree and fig wasp

Parasitic wasps increase fig tree production by placing limits on the mutualism between figs and fig wasps.

Profile PhotoSherry Ritter
Cooperate/compete between different speciesPollinateProtect from animals
strategy

Stinging cells target preyGreen sea anemone

Stinging cells of sea anemones effectively target prey using a combination of physical and chemical cues.

Profile PhotoJeanette Lim
Capture, absorb, or filter organismsExpel solidsRespond to signalsSense chemicals (odor, taste, etc) from the environmentSense touch and mechanical forces in a living system
strategy

Electric organ stuns prey, deters attackerselectric catfish

The organ surrounding the body of an electric catfish can stun prey or be used in defense by discharging up to 350 volts of electricity.

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Capture, absorb, or filter organismsModify electric chargeProtect from animals
strategy

Sucker attaches to uneven surfacesSharksuckers Or Remoras

Sucker of remora grips uneven surfaces with a combination of suction and friction

Profile PhotoEleanor Banwell
Attach temporarily
strategy

Mouthparts hold tightSheep Tick

Mouthparts of tick hold tight using a combined ratchet and barb mechanism

Profile PhotoEleanor Banwell
Attach temporarilyCapture, absorb, or filter liquids
strategy

Vision without eyespurple sea urchin

The body of purple sea urchins may allow spatial vision due to diffuse photoreceptors on the body surface and spines that shield wide-angle light.

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Sense light (non-visible spectrum) from the environmentSense light (visible spectrum) from the environmentSense shape and pattern in a living system
strategy

Blind cave-dwellers have super sensesAlabama cavefish

The bodies of Alabama cavefish allow them to survive without vision via elaborate appendages and beefed-up nerve centers.

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Sense chemicals (odor, taste, etc) from the environmentSense sound and other vibrations from the environmentSense temperature cues from the environmentSensing atmospheric conditions
strategy

Head kept motionless in flightkestrel

The head of the kestrel remains motionless in flight due to the bird's ability to hover by facing into the wind and matching its speed.

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Adapt behaviorsManage turbulenceModify positionModify speed
strategy

Echolocation pinpoints targetEgyptian fruit bat

Echolocation of Egyptian fruit bats is used to pinpoint the position of prey after detection by directing calls at the sides of the desired target.

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Navigate through air
strategy

Eyes see above and below water surfacefour-eyed fish

Split eyes of the four-eyed fish allow it to see above and below the surface of the water simultaneously due to varying thickness in the lens.

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Sense light (visible spectrum) from the environment
strategy

Eyes 'see' magnetic fieldsgarden warbler

Photoreceptor neurons in the eyes of some birds help navigation by detecting magnetic fields using magnetic sensing molecules called cryptochromes.

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Navigate through airSense electricity/magnetism from the environment
strategy

Beak design absorbs high-energy impactstoco toucan

Toucan beaks are built lightweight and strong thanks to a rigid foamy inside and layers of fibrous keratin tile outside.

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Manage impact
strategy

Pit-and-mound topography fosters biodiversityDouglas fir forests

The pit-and-mound surface microtopography of the forest floor in Douglas fir forests helps create and maintain diversity by creating microhabitats.

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Maintain biodiversityManage disturbance in a community
strategy

Smoke stimulates germinationpost-fire habitats

Flowers in post-fire habitats are stimulated to germinate by chemical substrates in smoke.

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Manage disturbance in a community
strategy

Mounds maximize ecosystem productivityOdontotermes termites

The below-ground mounds of Odontotermes termites strongly influence savanna productivity via ordered spatial distribution and modification of soil composition.

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Generate soil/renew fertilityMaintain biodiversityOptimize shape/materials
strategy

Spider silk warns birdsorb-web spider

Strands in orb-weaver spider webs warn birds, attract insects using UV-reflecting silk.

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Protect from animals
strategy

Combustion chamber sprays scalding liquidbombardier beetle

The combustion chamber of the bombardier beetle ejects scalding liquid by having a heart-shaped, long, narrow ejection tube.

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Expel liquidsTransform thermal energy
strategy

Sticky proteins serve as glueblue mussel

Byssal threads of the blue mussel attach to a wet, solid surface using adhesive proteins that overcome the surface’s attraction to water molecules.

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Attach permanentlyAttach temporarily
strategy

Spongey cranium absorbs impactgolden-fronted woodpecker

The skull of the golden-fronted woodpecker protects it from brain injury by absorbing shock via a plate-like spongey bone in the frontal cranium.

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Manage impact
strategy

Wing scales cause light to diffract and interfereMorpho butterflies

Wings of Morpho butterflies create color by causing light waves to diffract and interfere.

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Modify light/color
strategy

Multiple organisms interactsoil ecosystem

The soil ecosystem supports plant growth through interactions of millions of organisms that work together to break down chemicals and aerate the soil.

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Break down living materialsChemically break down organic compoundsCycle nutrients
strategy

Symbiosis enables growth in salty soilberseem clover

Mycorrhiza allow Egyptian clover to grow in salty soil by regulating the uptake and distribution of salt ions into the plant.

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Capture, absorb, or filter chemical entitiesCooperate/compete between different speciesProtect from chemicals
strategy

Structure distributes stressScots Pine

Trunks and branches of trees withstand external stresses through load-adaptive growth.

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Manage compressionManage shearManage tension
strategy

Bending prevents damageBirds

Flight feathers of birds avoid damage by bending out of the way

Profile PhotoEleanor Banwell
Manage compressionManage shearManage tensionManage turbulenceMove in/through gases
strategy

Interlocking increases material’s toughnessMolluscs

Plates in nacre increase toughness by interlocking

Profile PhotoEleanor Banwell
Manage compressionManage impactManage tensionPhysically assemble structure
strategy

Feet self-cleanTokay Gecko

Feet of the tokay gecko dynamically self-clean by flinging contaminants off toes.

Profile PhotoJeanette Lim
Attach temporarilyMove in/on solidsProtect from dirt/solidsProtect from excess liquids
strategy

Adhesive foot pads self-cleanInsects

Adhesive hairy foot pads on insects self-clean more efficiently than smooth pads because hair tips reduce the area for particle attachment.

Profile PhotoJeanette Lim
Protect from dirt/solids
strategy

Ridged surfaces resist biofoulingCommon Mussel, Mediterranean Mussel

Ridged surfaces on mussel shells resist biofouling by disrupting attachment.

Profile PhotoJeanette Lim
Protect from animalsProtect from microbesProtect from plants
strategy

Petals self-clean without being slipperyPlants, Wild pansy

Petals of pansy flowers maintain self-cleaning without sacrificing grip because of cone-shaped cells.

Profile PhotoEleanor Banwell
Protect from excess liquids
strategy

Skin reduces biofoulingshark

The scales of shark skin may influence attachment of fouling microorganisms via shape and surface topography.

Profile PhotoDimitri Smirnoff
Protect from animalsProtect from microbesProtect from plants
strategy

Plant fragments prevent infectionsblue tit chicks

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

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Protect from microbesRegulate reproduction or growth
strategy

Nests are antimicrobialfoam-nesting frogs

Nests of foam-nesting frogs protect eggs and sperm from microbes using unique antimicrobial proteins called ranaspumins.

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Protect from microbes
strategy

Antimicrobial peptides destroy bacteriaAmerican dog tick

Defensins in the American dog tick destroys the bacteria that cause Lyme disease by introducing voltage-dependent channels into bacterial membranes.

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Protect from microbes
strategy

Compounds from symbiotic bacteria kill pathogenshoopoe bird

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

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Cooperate/compete between different speciesProtect from microbes
strategy

Seed coat and enzymes protect seedlotus

Seeds of lotus remain viable for thousands of years via hard seed coat and repair enzymes.

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Manage mechanical wearProtect from excess liquidsProtect from fungiProtect from gasesProtect from lightProtect from temperature
strategy

Adaptive camouflage helps blend into the environmentcuttlefish

The skin of cuttlefish changes color rapidly using elastic pigment sacs called chromatophores, in order to evade predators.

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Modify light/colorProtect from animalsSend light signals in the visible spectrum
strategy

‘Bombs’ distract predatorsgreen bomber worms

Capsules discharged by green bomber worms produce bright green bioluminescence to distract predators.

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Protect from animalsSend light signals in the visible spectrumTransform radiant energy (light)
strategy

Lure attracts preyanglerfish

The rod-like lure on the head of a female anglerfish attracts prey using bioluminescence.

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Capture, absorb, or filter organismsSend light signals in the visible spectrumTransform radiant energy (light)
strategy

Pheromone sends long-range signallamprey

Special glands in male sea lamprey gills release a bile that acts as a sex pheromone to attract long-distance females.

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Send chemical signals (odor, taste, etc.)
strategy

Compounds protect against predatorsmilkweed

The chemical signaling system of milkweed defends against predators by use of terpene compounds

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Protect from animalsSend chemical signals (odor, taste, etc.)
strategy

Odor attracts specific insectstitan arum

The inflorescence of the titan arum plant attracts specific pollinators by emitting an intense, carrion-like odor.

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Send chemical signals (odor, taste, etc.)
strategy

Receptor organs filter background noiseweakly electric fish

Receptor organs in the skin of weakly electric fishes filter out background noise and enable communication using cells as capacitors.

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Differentiate signal from noiseSense electricity/magnetism from the environment
strategy

Receptors detect tiny disturbancesalligator

Faces of alligators detect tiny disturbances in the water and discriminate objects using touch-sensitive receptor cells in their scales.

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Sense shape and pattern in a living systemSense touch and mechanical forces in a living system
strategy

Organs detect electrical currentsgreat white shark

The snout of a great white shark detects minute electrical currents produced by prey using electrosensitive organs called ampullae of Lorenzini.

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Sense electricity/magnetism from the environment
strategy

Olfactory bulb detects X-rayscat

The sensory system of cats detects X-ray radiation with the olfactory bulb, rather than the eyes.

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Sense light (non-visible spectrum) from the environment
strategy

Organs aid navigationdolphin

The larynx and an organ on the head of dolphins detect and identify shapes of objects by sending and detecting sonar.

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Navigate through liquidSend sound signalsSense sound and other vibrations from the environment
strategy

Electricity helps communicationsmormyrid electric fish

The mormyrid electric fish communicate during courtship using electrical displays by varying waveform and pulse intervals.

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Send electrical/magnetic signalsSense electricity/magnetism from the environment
strategy

Amplifying soundbull snake

The hissing sound produced by a bull snake when air is forced through the bisected glottis is amplified thanks to a well-developed epiglottis.

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Send sound signals
strategy

Humidity changes exoskeleton colorHercules beetle

The exoskeleton of the Hercules beetle changes from green to black with increasing humidity using thin film interference by reversible modification of layer thickness.

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Modify light/colorSensing atmospheric conditions
strategy

Fire opens seed capsulesbanksia

Seeds of Banksia plants are dispersed via two-valved seed capsules that open in high fire temperatures.

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Disperse seedsSense temperature cues from the environment
strategy

Cyanogenic poison protects from herbivoresacacia

The leaves of acacia trees protect from being eaten by producing a cyanogenic poison.

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Protect from animalsSend chemical signals (odor, taste, etc.)
strategy

Leaves signal presence of predatorsacacia

The leaves of acacias send a warning to other plants that herbivores are feeding by releasing ethylene gas.

Profile PhotoAskNature Team
Protect from animalsSend chemical signals (odor, taste, etc.)Sense chemicals (odor, taste, etc) from the environment
strategy

Feet aid silent movementAfrican lion

The feet of African lions allow them to move silently because large foot pads cushion the sound of their footfalls.

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Move in/on solidsSend sound signals
strategy

Light used for camouflagevelvet belly lantern shark

Light emitting organs on the underside of velvet belly lantern sharks help camouflage them via bioluminescent counterillumination.

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Capture, absorb, or filter organismsModify light/colorProtect from animalsSend light signals in the visible spectrum
strategy

Achieving precise alignmentsea slug

Sea slugs align themselves at a precise angle by detecting the Earth's north-south magnetic axis.

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Modify positionSense balance/orientationSense electricity/magnetism from the environment
strategy

Ear-flaps concentrate sound wavesmammals

The external ear-flaps of many mammals aid hearing by concentrating sound waves.

Profile PhotoAskNature Team
Sense sound and other vibrations from the environment
strategy

Bioluminescence protects from predationdinoflagellates

Bioluminescence produced by some dinoflagellates helps protect them from predation by silently alerting higher order predators to the location of their enemies.

Profile PhotoAskNature Team
Modify light/colorProtect from animalsSend light signals in the visible spectrumTransform radiant energy (light)
strategy

Individuals avoid contactmosquitofish

Fish move synchronously in shoal by reacting dynamically to the nearest neighbor fish.

Profile PhotoAskNature Team
Coordinate by self-organizationNavigate through liquidRespond to signals
strategy

Chemicals reveal foescarpenter ant

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

Profile PhotoAskNature Team
Respond to signalsSense chemicals (odor, taste, etc) from the environment
strategy

Choice of plant reduces parasite loadmonarch butterfly

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

Profile PhotoAskNature Team
Protect from microbesRespond to signalsSense disease in a living system
strategy

Scales create brilliant whiteCyphochilus beetles

Ultrathin exterior scales of beetles create brilliant whiteness by scattering a wide spectrum of visible light wavelengths.

Profile PhotoAskNature Team
Distribute energyModify light/colorSend light signals in the visible spectrum
strategy

Collision detection in a swarmlocusts

The neuron lobula giant movement detector (LGMD) of the locust protects the locust from collison by filtering out excess stimuli.

Profile PhotoAskNature Team
Navigate through airProtect from animalsSend electrical/magnetic signalsSense body awarenessSense motion
strategy

Fins taste by touchgurnards

The fins of many fish, including gurnards and sea-robins, taste potential food using taste buds located on their tips.

Profile PhotoAskNature Team
Capture, absorb, or filter organismsCapture, absorb, or filter solidsSense chemicals (odor, taste, etc) from the environment
strategy

Fish body is a swimming tonguechannel catfish

The body of the channel catfish is sensitive to food particles in the water because it is covered in taste buds.

Profile PhotoAskNature Team
Sense chemicals (odor, taste, etc) from the environment
strategy

Burning stimulates floweringgrass trees

Flowering of grass trees following a fire may be triggered by a huge release of ethylene gas as the trees burn.

Profile PhotoAskNature Team
Regulate reproduction or growthSend chemical signals (odor, taste, etc.)
strategy

Hunting in the darkpiranha

Eyes of piranhas can see in dark, murky waters because they can detect far-red light.

Profile PhotoAskNature Team
Capture, absorb, or filter organismsSense light (visible spectrum) from the environment
strategy

Snout detects pressurestar-nosed mole

The snout of talpids can detect pressure and other sensory input thanks to the Eimer's gland, a mechanosensory organ.

Profile PhotoAskNature Team
Sense touch and mechanical forces in a living system
strategy

Marking unrewarding routespharaoh ant

Foraging members of Pharaoh ant colonies guide fellow foragers away from unrewarding routes via a repellent pheromone.

Profile PhotoAskNature Team
Coordinate by self-organizationSend chemical signals (odor, taste, etc.)
strategy

Eyes allow periscopic visionghost crabs

The eyes of ghost crabs allow 360? vision because they are positioned on mobile stalks.

Profile PhotoAskNature Team
Modify positionSense light (visible spectrum) from the environment
strategy

Congregating and physical stimulation trigger swarmingdesert locusts

Solitary forms of desert locusts transform into those that swarm when environmental conditions force the locusts to congregate in groups, increasing physical stimulation that sets off a metabolic and behavioral cascade.

Profile PhotoAskNature Team
Coordinate activitiesCoordinate by self-organizationSense touch and mechanical forces in a living system
strategy

Feet sensitive to sweetnessbutterfly

The feet of butterflies taste sweetness using extremely sensitive taste hairs.

Profile PhotoAskNature Team
Sense chemicals (odor, taste, etc) from the environment
strategy

Roots recruit symbiotic soil bacteriaMaize

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

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Cooperate/compete between different speciesProtect from microbesProtect from plantsSend chemical signals (odor, taste, etc.)
strategy

Periodic emergence synchronizedcicadas

The emergence of cicadas may be triggered by their sensing of cyclical cues from nearby tree roots.

Profile PhotoAskNature Team
Coordinate activitiesRegulate reproduction or growthSense time and day length
strategy

Navigation underwaterwhales

Whales navigate with incredible accuracy underwater using Earth's magnetic fields.

Profile PhotoAskNature Team
Navigate through liquidSense electricity/magnetism from the environment
strategy

Wing scales help camouflage from sonarmoth

The scales on moth wings help camouflage them from predatory bats because their uneven shape prevents the bats' sonar from detecting them clearly.

Profile PhotoAskNature Team
Modify size/shape/mass/volumeProtect from animalsSend sound signals
strategy

Vibrations alert others to dangerelephants

Elephants alert others to danger with low-frequency vibrations created by stomping their feet.

Profile PhotoAskNature Team
Send vibratory signals
strategy

Temporary chemical signals guide otherssolitary bees

Some species of bees send signals to other bees via temporary scent marks.

Profile PhotoAskNature Team
Send chemical signals (odor, taste, etc.)
strategy

Sensitivity encourages return to hive before stormbees

Bees protect themselves from approaching storms by sensing electromagnetic waves.

Profile PhotoAskNature Team
Coordinate activitiesSense electricity/magnetism from the environmentSensing atmospheric conditions
strategy

Legs detect airborne vibrationsspiders

The legs of some spiders detect airborne vibrations of approaching insects thanks to specialized vibration-sensitive hairs, called trichobothria, on certain leg segments.

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Sense motionSense sound and other vibrations from the environment
strategy

Flowers selectively deter insectsacacia

Flowers of some acacia plants attract pollinators while deterring protective symbiotic ants through the use of volatile organic compounds.

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PollinateProtect from animalsSend chemical signals (odor, taste, etc.)
strategy

Eyes see 300 images per seconddragonfly

The eyes of dragonflies sense motion well due to high flicker-fusion frequency.

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Sense motion
strategy

Leaves disorient beetles, prevent attackcucumber

The leaves of cucumbers prevent infestation by beetles by releasing a chemical that mimics that of female beetles, disorienting the males.

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Biological control of populations, pests, diseasesProtect from animalsSend chemical signals (odor, taste, etc.)
strategy

Light helps capture insectsglow worms

Special organs in glow worms help lure insects to their sticky silk threads using bioluminescence.

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Capture, absorb, or filter organismsSend light signals in the visible spectrumTransform radiant energy (light)
strategy

Cooling material creates precise shapesbees

Bees use body heat to shape wax into bubbles, which then cool to form rigid, efficient hexagons.

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Physically assemble structureSense shape and pattern in a living system
strategy

Gular pouch used to attract matefrigatebird

Male frigatebirds attract mates with an elastic, red gular pouch that is inflatable.

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Modify size/shape/mass/volumeSend light signals in the visible spectrum
strategy

Tusks sense chemicalsNarwhal

The tusks of male narwhals may detect chemicals related to ice formation, salinity, or prey using a vast network of fluid-filled tubules connected to the tusk's central nerve.

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Sense chemicals (odor, taste, etc) from the environment
strategy

Bacteria use chemical signals to communicatebacteria

Bacteria sense each other using chemicals to determine local density.

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Sense chemicals (odor, taste, etc) from the environment
strategy

Senses help avoid stormsswifts

Swifts can avoid electrical storms by sensing atmospheric ionization prior to a storm's arrival.

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Sense electricity/magnetism from the environmentSensing atmospheric conditions
strategy

Navigating without landmarksrock pigeon

Homing pigeons navigate without the Sun or other landmarks as guides because they use magnetosensitivity to detect their location.

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Navigate through airSense electricity/magnetism from the environment
strategy

Mosquitoes detect carbon dioxidemalarial mosquitoes

The olfactory system of malarial mosquitoes detects carbon dioxide from potential hosts via a sensory mouth appendage, called a maxillary palp.

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Sense chemicals (odor, taste, etc) from the environment
strategy

Feathers aid prey detectionsaw-whet owl

The flattened feathers around the eyes of a saw-whet owl aid the detection of prey because they funnel sound.

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Sense sound and other vibrations from the environment
strategy

Herd finds fresh foodwildebeests

Wildebeests find new food resources by detecting areas of rainfall from afar.

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Capture, absorb, or filter energySensing atmospheric conditions
strategy

Communicating over long distancescassowaries

Cassowaries communicate over long distances in dense rainforest using low frequency booming sounds.

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Send sound signalsSense sound and other vibrations from the environment
strategy

Roots stabilize trees against windlongleaf pine

Roots of longleaf pine protect from strong winds by forming both large anchoring taproots and a widespread lateral root system.

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Protect from wind
strategy

Movements aerate soilshort-beaked echidna

The echidna respires while buried underground by using its snout to move the soil around its head, enabling access to the air trapped between soil particles.

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Distribute gasesProtect from dirt/solidsProtect from loss of gases
strategy

Tongue moves fastchameleons

The tongue of chameleons and the Mount Lyell salamander accelerates at ballistic speeds even in cold weather using an elastic recoil mechanism.

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Manage mechanical wearModify speedMove in/through gases
strategy

Dense underfur insulatesreindeer

The coat of a reindeer insulates against polar cold with the help of dense underfur that traps air.

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Protect from temperature
strategy

Large ears used to cool offjackrabbit

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

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Maintain homeostasisProtect from temperature
strategy

Fur absorbs infrared radiation to prevent heat losspolar bear

Guard hairs on the polar bear prevent heat loss by absorbing heat in the form of infrared radiation.

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Capture, absorb, or filter energyProtect from temperature
strategy

Leaves communicate pest damageplants

The leaves of some plants protect from pests because as they are chewed, they release a chemical combination of acids and alcohols that attract pest-eating insects.

Profile PhotoMelissa Pernell
Biological control of populations, pests, diseasesProtect from animalsSend chemical signals (odor, taste, etc.)
strategy

Appendage strikes with amplified speedmantis shrimp

The raptorial appendage of the mantis shrimp strikes with tremendous speed and force through power amplification.

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Capture, absorb, or filter organismsProtect from animalsStore energyTransform mechanical energy
strategy

Wings fold multiple times without wearbeetles

Wings of beetles fold multiple times without wear or fatigue by having resilin in key joints.

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Manage mechanical wearPrevent fatigue
strategy

Teeth are self-sharpeningAmerican beaver

The teeth of beavers self-sharpen because their inner surface is softer than the outer enamel and wears away faster to create a sharp edge.

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Manage mechanical wearModify material characteristicsModify size/shape/mass/volume
strategy

Wings allow escape from spider websbutterflies

The wings of butterflies and moths help them escape spider webs and other predators because they have scales that easily detach.

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Expel solidsProtect from animals
strategy

Tail shedding allows escaperodents

The tails of many rodents assist escape from predators because they can be shed.

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Protect from animals
strategy

Relationship provides nutrients, housing, protectionbull horn acacia and acacia ants

Bullhorn acacias provide nutrients and housing for ants in return for protection from herbivores thanks to a mutualistic relationship.

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Cooperate/compete between different speciesProtect from animals
strategy

Dikes prevent floodingground squirrel

The underground burrows of ground squirrels are protected from flooding during rain storms because the squirrels build circular dikes to divert water.

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Protect from excess liquids
strategy

Native plants persist in changing conditionswetland ecosystems

Some native plant species in wetlands have long-term persistence despite fluctuating water levels because they have long-lived seeds deposited in the soil seed bank.

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Disperse seedsGenerate soil/renew fertilityMaintain biodiversityManage disturbance in a communityProtect from excess liquids
strategy

Relationship provides nutrients, protectionant-plants and ants

Ant-plants and their ant lodgers gain nutrients and protection thanks to their mutualistic relationship.

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Cooperate/compete between different speciesCoordinate activitiesCycle nutrientsProtect from animals
strategy

Worm tolerates temperature gradient of 140 deg FPompeii worm

Pompeii worms tolerate the steepest temperature gradient on the planet using multiple strategies.

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Protect from temperature
strategy

Eyes squirt bloodhorned lizard

Blood-filled sinuses within the eye sockets of horned lizards squirt blood in self-defense by swelling and rupturing.

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Expel liquidsExpel solidsProtect from animals
strategy

Compounds control 'weeds'fine-leaf fescue

Roots of fine-leaf fescue help them outcompete other plants because they release growth-inhibiting chemicals that mimic nutrients.

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Biological control of populations, pests, diseasesProtect from plantsRegulate reproduction or growth
strategy

Trees have extreme longevitybristlecone pine

Bristlecone pines can survive for thousands of years in harsh environments by shutting down non-essential processes.

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Maintain homeostasis
strategy

Skin glands accumulate protective toxins from preyEleutherodactylus orientalis

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

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Capture, absorb, or filter chemical entitiesProtect from animals
strategy

Defensive measures prevent toxicity of heavy metalsthale 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.

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Protect from chemicalsProtect from dirt/solidsRegulate cellular processes
strategy

Catch-bonds hold on tighter when pulled apartsalmonella

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

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Attach temporarilyManage shearManage tension
strategy

Immune system protects from toxinhorse mackerel

The immune system of the horse mackerel allows it to hide among the tentacles of the man-of-war via toxin immunity.

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Protect from chemicals
strategy

Plant poison neutralizes digestive juicescotton grass

The poison produced by cotton grass protects them from lemmings by neutralizing digestive juices, leading to lemming starvation.

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Protect from animals
strategy

Leaves protect from herbivoryAustralian stinging tree

The leaves of the Australian stinging tree and other plants protect themselves from herbivory with venomous stinging hairs.

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Protect from animals
strategy

Fish thrives in freshwater and seawaterAtlantic salmon

Salmon can spend part of their lives in freshwater and part in seawater due to adaptive changes in their physiology.

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Maintain homeostasisRegulate cellular processes
strategy

Deployable web distracts predatorsblanket octopus

The membrane attached to some arms of the blanket octopus serves as a defense mechanism because it expands to distract predators and can be shed if necessary.

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Modify size/shape/mass/volumeProtect from animals
strategy

Leaves deter herbivorybirch trees

The leaves of some birch trees may help deter herbivory by adsorbing arthropod-repelling chemical compounds emitted from neighboring plants.

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Cooperate within an ecosystemProtect from animals
strategy

Sharp teeth always availablenurse sharks

The teeth of nurse sharks are always sharp and effective because new rows of teeth develop constantly to replace older, worn down teeth.

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Manage mechanical wearPhysically assemble structure
strategy

Selective strategies aid competitive successmangrove forests

Mangrove forests successfully compete for resources by exhibiting both r-selected (pioneer) and K-selected (competitive) attributes.

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Cooperate within an ecosystemRegulate reproduction or growth
strategy

Branches survive intense windlive oak

Live oaks survive strong winds because of high wood strength and a low canopy that branches out in multiple subdivisions without a main axis.

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Protect from wind
strategy

Branches protect plant from windArctic willow

Stems and branches of Arctic willow protect from strong winds via horizontal growth.

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Protect from wind
strategy

Ink cloud distracts predatorsoctopus

The ink cloud emitted by an octopus when threatened aids escape because it resembles the shape of the octopus.

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Protect from animals
strategy

Buttressing resists uprootingEnglish oak

Roots of broad-based trees with stiff trunks resist uprooting through compressive buttressing.

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Manage compressionProtect from wind
strategy

Social system protects from diseasedampwood termites

Members of termite colonies transfer immunity among colony members via a sort of social vaccination.

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Protect from fungiProtect from microbes
strategy

Collaboration benefits multiple participantsmangrove forests

Several species of epiphytes, ants, fungi, and butterflies in mangrove forests provide benefits to each other through mutualism.

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Cooperate within an ecosystemCooperate/compete between different speciesCoordinate activitiesCycle nutrients
strategy

Guard cells regulate gas and moisture exchangeplants

Stomatal pores in plants regulate the amount of water and solutes within them by opening and closing their guard cells using osmotic pressure.

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Regulate cellular processes
resource

The Hidden Power of AnimalsKarl Shuker

A fascinating look at the astonishing behavior and super-human abilities of animals, from kings of the jungle to household pets. This book reveals incredible truths about animals and their remarkable sensitivities, skills, and strengths.

Profile PhotoSherry Ritter
Books
resource

Weird NatureJohn Downer

Some of the most fantastic behaviors of real animals are explored in this beautifully illustrated companion volume to a BBC/ Discovery Channel series.

Profile PhotoSherry Ritter
Books
resource

Living in a Material WorldNational Geographic

This 4-min video shows how the MIT Self-Assembly Lab is creating materials that can adapt to changing conditions and self-assemble, similar to nature's materials.

Profile PhotoSherry Ritter
Film / TV / Video
resource

Biomimicry Inspired ThinkingInterface

Four architects and designers discuss how they apply biomimicry to their designs and how they went from inspiration to deeper learning and ultimately application to their work.

Profile PhotoSherry Ritter
Film / TV / Video
resource

The Story of Life in PhotographsFrans Lanting, TED2005

This beautiful TED talk by nature photographer Frans Lanting tells the story of our planet starting with its eruptive beginnings and revealing the story of the evolution of life.

Profile PhotoSherry Ritter
Film / TV / Video
resource

Biomimicry: Systems that WorkEllen MacArthur Foundation, Disruptive Innovation Festival

Janine Benyus and Michael Pawlyn discuss how biomimicry is used to emulate biological systems for more sustainable human-made ones. The presentation is followed by Q&A.

Profile PhotoSherry Ritter
Film / TV / Video
resource

Causal Patterns in EcosystemsHarvard Undergraduate School of Education

This curriculum addresses six broad and persistent misunderstandings students have about ecosystems. It's filled with lessons, activities, materials for activities, and background information for educators.

Profile PhotoSherry Ritter
Curriculum Units
resource

Creating Local Solutions to Global Problems: Instructional Storyline for the Biomimicry Youth Design ChallengeBiomimicry Institute

This project storyline is a suggested sequence of connected lessons that guides students through a learning journey to complete the Biomimicry Youth Design Challenge.

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Curriculum Units
resource

Creating a Bio-Industrial Revolution | Janine BenyusTED Archive

Janine Benyus speaks about how biomimicry can shape new approaches to materials and manufacturing.

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Film / TV / Video
resource

The world is poorly designed. But copying nature helps.Vox and 99% Invisible

This 6 minute video introduces biomimicry, the application of biomimicry at different scales, and connections to the circular economy.

Profile PhotoGretchen Hooker
Film / TV / Video
resource

Introduction to Biomimicry: Foundational courseBiomimicry 3.8

In this 3 hour online course, you will learn the core philosophy and key elements of biomimicry as practiced by the consultancy Biomimicry 3.8.

Profile PhotoAskNature Team
General Training
resource

Biomimicry & Science: Applying Nature’s StrategiesBiomimicry Institute & EcoRise

A high school science curriculum that reinforces core concepts in biology, chemistry, and physics, and includes a biomimicry design challenge.

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Curriculum Units
resource

AskNature NuggetsBiomimicry Institute

AskNature Nuggets present biological strategies and their corresponding function in a series of short and fun videos.

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Film / TV / Video
resource

Biomimicry ToolboxBiomimicry Institute

A self-paced online guide to applying nature’s lessons to design challenges.

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Educator TrainingGeneral TrainingWebsites / Apps
resource

Michael Pawlyn: Using nature’s genius in architectureTED Talks

At TEDSalon in London, architect Michael Pawlyn describes three habits of nature that could transform architecture and society.

Profile PhotoGretchen Hooker
Film / TV / Video
resource

Learn BiomimicryBiomimicrySA

Learn the fundamentals of biomimicry and Life's Principles in this series of 3 online courses.

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General Training
resource

Lo—TEK. Design by Radical IndigenismJulia Watson

This book explores the idea that the forward-thinking solutions we need may lie not in new technologies, but in a symbiotic relationship with nature that has been modeled by indigenous communities around the world for millennia.

Profile PhotoGretchen Hooker
Books
resource

SeekBy iNaturalist

This app uses the power of image recognition technology to help you identify the plants and animals all around you.

Profile PhotoGretchen Hooker
Websites / Apps
resource

iNaturalistCalifornia Academy of Sciences & National Geographic

A website for citizen science and nature appreciation where you can record what you observe in nature, crowdsource organism identifications, and build knowledge about the natural world.

Profile PhotoGretchen Hooker
Websites / Apps
resource

Nature’s Innovations: Animals as EngineersShape of Life

This lesson, with videos, examines how animals have solved engineering problems and how humans have mimicked those solutions. Suitable for Grade 7-12.

Profile PhotoAsa Jomard
Film / TV / VideoLesson Plans
resource

The Power of Community Inspired by NatureTEDx: Saskia van den Muijsenberg

Saskia van den Muijsenberg, founder of BiomimicryNL (Netherlands), talks about what we can learn from nature to help us with community initiatives.

Profile PhotoSherry Ritter
Film / TV / Video
resource

Map of Life: Convergent Evolution OnlineUniversity of Cambridge

Map of Life provides information about convergent evolution, when unrelated organisms evolve similar adaptations to similar environmental or selective pressures. This is a great resource when looking for biological strategies that are used repeatedly in the natural world.

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Websites / Apps
strategy

Bubbles corral preyhumpback whale

Humpback whales control movement of prey by blowing spiraling nets of bubbles underwater.

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Capture, absorb, or filter organismsCooperate within the same speciesCoordinate activities
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Contributed by Kimberly Byrd

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