The Biomimicry Examples Database
Explore 181 biomimicry examples and case studies, each traced from the organism to the design principle behind it.
181 examples·13 categories·Free access
Best Examples
Ranked across five criteria: biomimicry link, ease of application, wide applicability, Life's Principles and benefit to humanity.
Plant volatile signaling systems
Plant volatile emission patterns inspire bio-based food preservation sachets that extend shelf life without synthetic chemicals.
Lotus leaf (Nelumbo nucifera) surface structure
Lotus leaf surface microstructure inspires PFAS-free, durable water-repellent textiles (Amphitex), eliminating persistent environmental pollutants.
Morpho butterfly (Morpho rhetenor)
The Morpho butterfly's iridescent blue wings contain no blue pigment — the colour is created entirely by microscopic structures that interfere with light. This inspired a range of structural colour technologies that could eliminate toxic textile dyes entirely.
Burdock plant (Arctium sp.)
The invention of Velcro — one of the most commercially successful products in history — came directly from Swiss engineer George de Mestral observing how burdock burrs clung to his dog's fur through thousands of tiny hooks that caught on microscopic loops in the fur.
Spiders (various species producing different silk types)
Development of high-performance synthetic spider silk proteins for next-generation materials with exceptional strength and flexibility.
Sacred lotus (Nelumbo nucifera)
The lotus leaf is covered in microscopic waxy bumps that make water form perfect spheres and roll off instantly, carrying dirt with them. This "lotus effect" has been commercialised in self-cleaning building materials, textiles, medical devices, and solar panels worldwide.
Mycelium (fungal networks, various species)
Biohm developed mycelium-based building materials that are affordable, non-toxic, fire-resistant, and fully biodegradable. These materials function as insulation, structural panels, and acoustic treatments in sustainable building design.
Mycelium (fungal networks, various Basidiomycete species)
Ecovative Design engineered mycelium-based packaging materials that are completely compostable and biodegradable. Mycelium (fungal root networks) grows as a natural binder, creating foam-like structures that replace plastic packaging.
Fungi and fungal networks
Novobiom harnesses fungal and mycelium networks to remediate contaminated industrial sites. Fungi naturally break down pollutants and absorb heavy metals, restoring soil health without excavation or chemical treatment.
Lily (Zantedeschia aethiopica)
The PAX Water Mixer mimics the golden ratio spiral flow of a calla lily to circulate 10 million gallons of water with the energy footprint of just three 100-watt light bulbs.
Waterbirds (uropygial gland preen oil)
Cellulotech's chromatogeny process mimics waterbird preen oil by grafting nanoscale fatty acid molecules onto cellulose fibres, making paper and cardboard superhydrophobic while preserving full recyclability and biodegradability.
Fungal mycelium (Ganoderma and other species)
Ecovative Design grows packaging, leather, and foam from fungal mycelium fed on agricultural waste, replacing petroleum-based polystyrene and plastics with materials that are home-compostable in 30–45 days and produce 90 % fewer greenhouse gas emissions.
Fungi Inspired On-site Waste Remediation - Mycocycle Mycocycle works with nature’s master decomposers, fungi, to break down complex waste streams such as construction materials and asphalt.
Bacillus bacteria
Hendrik Jonkers (Dutch researcher) developed self-healing concrete using Bacillus bacteria. The bacteria produce limestone when exposed to water and oxygen, automatically healing concrete cracks.
Pitcher plant (Nepenthes sp.)
Adaptive Surface Technologies developed SLIPS (Slippery Liquid-Infused Porous Surfaces) inspired by pitcher plant slip properties. These surfaces are extremely slippery, self-healing, and prevent adhesion of virtually any material without fouling or degradation.
Golden silk orb-weaver spider (Nephila clavipes)
Spider silk is five times stronger than steel by weight, more elastic than nylon, and biodegradable — yet spiders have never been farmed like silkworms. Bolt Threads and other companies have now synthesised spider silk proteins using yeast fermentation to create the world's highest-performance natural material.
Spider (Araneus sp., UV-Reflective Silk)
Spiders add UV-reflective silk to webs. Birds see UV. 1 billion birds die from glass strikes yearly.
Tree fiber growth patterns
Tree fibre growth patterns inspire fibre-steered timber technology that achieves 90% weight reduction versus concrete.
Aquaporin water channel proteins (found in all organisms)
Reverse osmosis water filtration systems inspired by aquaporin water channel proteins that enable selective, efficient water transport across membranes.
Coral Reef Organisms
Mycosporine-like amino acids replace oxybenzone in sunscreen
PolyGone Systems: Remove microplastics from the world's waters Microplastics are tiny, but they are a huge problem for our water.
Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) and aromatic plants
Nanomik Biotechnology harnesses the volatile chemical defenses that plants use to fight fungal disease — encapsulating them in edible bio-polymer microcapsules that adhere to crops and release protection on demand — replacing toxic synthetic fungicides with nature's own chemistry.
Tokay gecko (Gekko gecko)
Gecko feet can attach and detach from almost any surface instantly, without glue or suction, simply using van der Waals molecular forces created by millions of tiny hair-like structures. This has inspired reusable dry adhesives now used in robotics, medical devices, and space applications.
Blue mussel (Mytilus edulis)
Mussels attach themselves to wet, wave-battered rocks using protein threads that bond to virtually any surface underwater — something no synthetic adhesive has ever matched. Scientists have now synthesised the key molecule (DOPA) to create biomedical glues that work inside the body.
Methanotrophic bacteria (methane-oxidising microorganisms)
Methanotrophic bacteria inspire carbon-negative bioplastic from greenhouse gases, converting methane to polyhydroxyalkanoate polymer.
Pine cone (Pinus spp.) hygroscopic response
Pine cone's humidity-responsive opening/closing mechanism inspires early wildfire detection devices that require no electronics.
Vascular Plants, Sapwood (Xylem Tissue)
Sapwood xylem filters bacteria at 99.9%. Costs nearly nothing.
Fungal mycelium (Ganoderma species and related fungi)
AirLoom™ Hides from Forager (by Ecovative) grow sheets of pure fungal mycelium on agricultural waste into a durable, fully compostable leather alternative. The hides preserve the natural fibrous architecture of mycelium without grinding or binding — matching animal leather in tear resistance and available in custom colours, textures, and thicknesses from 0.4 to 1.3 mm for fashion, accessories, and footwear.
Plant leaves, citrus peel, rubisco enzyme
Development of biodegradable bioplastics using plant-based materials and enzymatic processes inspired by natural photosynthesis and plant metabolism.
Ecotune: Scaling bio-based, plastic-free leather (and future materials) Pioneers of 100% bio-based materials engineered from the molecular level up, Ecotune mimics the structure and performance of leather.
Fog-harvesting beetle (Stenocara gracilipes)
Infinite Cooling developed fog harvesting technology inspired by the fog-harvesting beetle. Microscopic surface patterns collect water from fog without energy input, enabling water collection in arid regions.
Mosquito proboscis (Aedes aegypti, Culex pipiens)
Mosquito proboscis serrated geometry inspires less-painful micro-needles for drug delivery and blood sampling.
Fungal mycelium (Ganoderma species and related fungi)
MycoFlex® Foam from Forager (by Ecovative) is a 100% biobased foam grown from pure mycelium on agricultural waste in just 7 to 9 days. The foam is antimicrobial, thermally insulating, flame resistant, and aerobically compostable — delivering a sustainable alternative to petroleum-derived foams across footwear, upholstery, and accessories.
Nematode (Caenorhabditis elegans)
Nematode chemical signals disrupt pest behaviour without pesticides.
White beetles (Cyphochilus species)
Development of eco-friendly white cellulose pigments inspired by the structural color of white beetles.
Ecosystems and natural circular systems
The Ellen MacArthur Foundation develops circular economy frameworks based on ecosystem principles. Circular economies eliminate waste by designing products and systems to cycle continuously through biological or technical loops.
Hard corals (Scleractinia order)
Blue Planet developed concrete aggregates using CO2-sequestering minerals inspired by coral calcium carbonate structures. These aggregates lock CO2 into concrete, reducing emissions while improving building material sustainability.
Honeybee (Apis mellifera)
Interface designed modular carpet tiles inspired by the random, distributed positioning of honeybees in a hive. The random pattern prevents visible seams and wear patterns while maintaining aesthetic appeal and durability.
Prairie Ecosystem (North American Tallgrass Prairie)
Polyculture perennial grains mimic prairie biodiversity.
Shortfin mako shark (Isurus oxyrinchus)
Shark skin is covered in microscopic tooth-like scales called denticles that create a riblet surface — this texture physically prevents bacteria from attaching, without any chemical biocides. Sharklet Technologies has commercialised this as the world's first physical (not chemical) anti-bacterial surface for hospital use.
Humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae)
The bumps (tubercles) on humpback whale fins turn out to be a breakthrough aerodynamic innovation. WhalePower Corporation's turbine blades, modelled on these tubercles, generate 20% more power, operate in 40% lower wind speeds, and stall less — transforming wind energy economics.
Anew Material: (Re)imagining the future of Nail Varnish (and all other coatings) Most coatings and nail polishes are made from plastic and harsh chemicals. Anew Material uses proteins found in nature to make coatings that are tough but completely biodegradable.
Bioadhesive technology that sticks to wet surfaces How do you stick something to a wet or uneven surface? Barnacles can adhere to uneven and contaminated surfaces. Spider webs are instantly dry and adhere to wet surfaces.
Cyanobacteria / Blue-Green Algae
Harmful algal bloom biomass replaces petroleum-based EVA foam
Diatoms (Bacillariophyceae class)
Aquammodate harnesses diatom algae for water purification. Diatoms naturally filter and clean water while removing contaminants and accumulating nutrients, enabling low-cost, low-energy water treatment.
Eco-friendly, enzymatic cement How would nature make cement? Oysters, for example, produce an extremely hardy, glue-like substance to attach to rocks.
Termite swarm collective behaviour
Termite swarm coordination logic inspires decentralised building HVAC systems that optimise energy without central controls.
High-performance material made from seaweed waste Soarce is a company using nanoceramics combined with seaweed to make versatile fabrics and materials for the fashion and gear industry without using any plastic.
Arion subfuscus (Spanish slug) mucus composition
Arion subfuscus slug mucus inspires tough, flexible surgical glue adhering to wet tissue surfaces.
Liver Inspired Toxic Free Cleaning Materials - Sudoc One of your body's most amazing organs, The human liver is just incredible - from filtering harmful things from your blood, storing fuel, and even helps you digest food..
Algal cell walls and biopolymers
Algae's structural biopolymers inspire foam materials for fully biodegradable, multifunctional footwear, replacing petroleum-based polymers.
Bromeliad water-capture leaf structure
Bromeliad rainwater-capture architecture inspires reforestation pods that establish seedlings in water-scarce regions without irrigation.
Recycling textile waste into fibre for fabric Fiberly uses biotechnology to turn cellulosic textile waste into fibre, using cotton as an inspiration.
Morpho Butterfly, Jewel Beetle (Nanostructured Cuticles)
Non-toxic bright white from cellulose nanostructures.
Warm-blooded mammals (eccrine sweating thermoregulation)
Inspired by how warm-blooded animals cool themselves through sweat evaporation, researchers at MIT developed a temperature-sensitive hydrogel layer that passively releases water when surfaces overheat. The hydrogel acts as an artificial sweating skin — dissipating heat through evaporation with more than twice the cooling efficiency of natural convection, without any energy input or moving parts.
Tardigrades (water bears, Tardigrada phylum)
Vaccine stabilization technology inspired by tardigrade cryptobiosis allowing stable storage without refrigeration.
Mallard Duck
Molecular grafting replicates duck preen-oil nanocoating
Gecko toe pads
A waterproof, biodegradable adhesive bandage developed using gecko-inspired dry adhesion technology that mimics the van der Waals forces in gecko toe pads.
Various bird species
Leonardo da Vinci's ornithopter studies and the Wright Brothers' airplane design based on bird flight mechanics and wing structures.
Soaring birds (Buteo and Aquila species)
Large soaring birds like eagles and vultures spread their primary feathers into finger-like tips to reduce induced drag during soaring. Aircraft designers have mimicked this with winglets that reduce drag by 5–7%, saving airlines billions of litres of fuel per year.
Gecko lizard (Gekkota sp.)
Interface developed glue-free carpet tiles using gecko-inspired dry adhesive principles. The tiles use van der Waals forces to create reusable, pressure-sensitive attachment without permanent adhesives.
Namib Desert beetle (Stenocara gracilipes)
The Namib beetle harvests water from fog in one of the world's driest deserts by using bumps on its back that attract water droplets, which then roll into its mouth. This principle is now used in fog nets, building materials, and greenhouse designs to collect drinkable water from thin air.
Night-flying moths (various nocturnal Lepidoptera)
Moths' eyes are covered in an array of tiny bumps that eliminate virtually all reflection, allowing maximum light to enter in darkness. This "moth-eye" anti-reflection structure is now used in high-efficiency solar cells, increasing energy capture by up to 40%, and in anti-glare screens for every device you own.
Spider (Araneae order), specifically orb-weaver spiders
Spintex Engineering and biotech companies develop synthetic spider silk fibers for textiles. Spider silk is stronger than steel of equivalent weight and can absorb significant impact energy, making it ideal for high-performance applications.
Red abalone (Haliotis rufescens)
Abalone shell (nacre) is made of 95% calcium carbonate — chalk — yet is 3,000 times tougher than chalk. The secret is a microscopic "brick-and-mortar" architecture that deflects and dissipates cracks. This has inspired bulletproof glass, ceramic armour, and self-healing materials.
Forest Ecosystem (Soil-Plant-Microbial Network)
Mimics forest floor decomposition for household wastewater.
Maple seed (Acer) autorotation; Barn owl (Tyto alba) silent flight feathers
Maple seed spinning descent inspires PowerCone retrofit for wind turbine blades, increasing energy capture by 10-13%.
Coral / Molluscs
Microbial carbonate precipitation replaces kiln-fired Portland cement
Ecosystems (multiple species interdependence)
Closed-loop business model developed by the Green Business Network and Graham Wiles that cascades waste from one production stage to become input for another.
Soap bubbles, carbon molecules, pollen grains, dragonfly wings, pressurised natural membranes
The Eden Project's iconic biome enclosures use soap bubble geometry reinforced with hexagons and pentagons, achieving structures lighter than the air they contain using ETFE polymer 1% the weight of glass.
Emboa Medical: Better Stroke Treatment Removing blood clots from the brain is a delicate and difficult job… Yes, it is brain surgery (well sort of - it’s restoring blood flow to the brain).
Vascular Plants (Transpiration)
Plants transpire water through leaves. Applied to sanitation in developing world.
Human lungs and pulmonary physiology
Carbon dioxide removal technology inspired by human lung gas exchange mechanisms for direct air capture.
Mimikai: Nature’s Secret to Insect Repellent Many people dislike the smell and feel of traditional bug sprays like DEET.
New Dawn Bio: Growing Wood in a Lab Cutting down trees for wood is slow and wasteful.
Oysters (Crassostrea virginica and other species)
Ecosystem restoration using oyster reef structures to rebuild coastal habitats, improve water quality, and provide storm protection.
Spider (Araneae order), specifically silk-producing spiders
AMSilk (Germany) produces bioengineered spider silk proteins for cosmetics. Synthetic spider silk creates luxurious, high-performance cosmetics with superior properties and sustainability.
Sycamore trees (Acer species) seed pods
Ceiling fan blade design inspired by sycamore seed pod aerodynamics for improved air circulation efficiency.
Natural ecosystem nutrient cycling
This zero-waste urban greenhouse concept mimics natural ecosystem nutrient cycling, where waste from one process becomes input for another, generating food, energy, and water treatment simultaneously.
Marine mollusc shells
This Manchester flue tower uses mollusc shell-inspired lace structure with thin steel sheets (6-8mm) and perforations to achieve remarkable lightness without sacrificing strength.
Whole systems, ecosystems, and natural capitalism principles
Kate Raworth's Doughnut Economy framework applies whole-systems and natural capitalism principles to redesign economic models. This systems-level biomimicry reframes economic success around ecological and social well-being rather than GDP growth.
African termite (Macrotermes michaelseni)
The Eastgate Centre in Harare, Zimbabwe uses no conventional air conditioning, yet maintains a constant temperature year-round — modelled entirely on how African termites regulate heat inside their 3-metre mounds.
Mantis Shrimp (Stomatopoda, Dactyl Club)
Herringbone structure rotates crack propagation. Purdue/UCR research.
Octopus (Octopodidae, Muscular Hydrostats)
Muscular hydrostats with infinite degrees of freedom.
Plants and photosynthetic microorganisms
New Iridium and other companies develop light-driven chemical energy systems mimicking photosynthesis. These systems convert light directly into chemical energy (hydrogen, hydrocarbons) without biological organisms.
Human retina photoreceptor and ganglion cell arrays
Human retinal architecture inspires event-based vision sensors generating 1000x less data than conventional cameras whilst capturing motion and edges.
Common kingfisher (Alcedo atthis)
Engineer Eiji Nakatsu re-designed the nose of Japan's Shinkansen 500 series bullet train based on the kingfisher's beak — eliminating the sonic boom when exiting tunnels, reducing energy use by 15%, and increasing speed by 10%.
A molecular catalyst for storing energy in systems Azul Energy in Japan has created metal-free catalytic technology through renewable energy for energy storage. What it really boils down to is a special substance that helps speed up chemical reactions without using rare metals.
Hemoglobin and iron-binding proteins
Hemoglobin's oxygen-binding mechanism inspires metal-free catalysts for energy storage, replacing rare-earth elements.
Electrogenic Bacteria
Electrogenic bacteria extract lithium and cobalt without smelting
Bio-inspired Nano-scale Surface Texture - Fusion Bionic Straight out of a science function, Fusion Bionic is opening a new door to new nano-scale surface textures.
Bioluminescent dinoflagellates and other microorganisms
Decorative and ambient lighting systems using bioluminescent microorganism culture inspired design principles.
Human / Mammalian Bone
Trabecular bone growth algorithms optimise structural components
Sea Urchin structure
The BUGA Wood Pavilion at the University of Stuttgart inspired by sea urchin structures for lightweight and efficient temporary architecture.
Maize / Sugarcane
Engineering C4 carbon-fixation pathways into C3 crops and industrial reactors
Coral Reef Ecosystem
Cascade nutrient cycling modelled on coral reef trophic loops
Biological cycles (ecosystems)
Applying circular economy principles from natural ecosystems to textile production and upholstery design.
Western Honeybee
Distributed optimisation modelled on bee scout-recruit cycles
Namibian fog-basking beetle (Stenocara gracilipes)
This water amphitheatre mimics the Namibian fog-basking beetle's water harvesting mechanism, using hydrophilic/hydrophobic surfaces to condense atmospheric moisture into freshwater with 10x energy savings for desalination.
Low-impact cobalt and nickel source By 2030, there will be an
Praio: Protocells for sustainable, low-cost chemical production Making ingredients for perfumes or medicines can be expensive and carbon-heavy.
Slime mold (Physarum polycephalum)
Railway system and network design inspired by slime mold's ability to create optimal resource distribution networks without central planning.
Trees (Multi-Canopy Leaf Architecture)
Biomimetic shade canopies for urban heat islands.
Schooling fish (mackerel and other species)
Vertical axis wind turbines arranged using principles of fish schooling to improve efficiency and reduce energy costs in wind farms.
Scleractinian coral fluorescent proteins
Coral fluorescent proteins inspire biodegradable, vibrant coloured fibres without synthetic dyes, eliminating textile industry's water pollution.
Wetland ecosystems (multiple plant and microbial species)
Wastewater treatment systems designed as functioning ecosystems mimicking natural wetlands for biological purification.
Forests and tree ecosystems
Vincent Callebaut Architectures designs biomimetic buildings that function like living ecosystems. Vertical forests integrate vegetation into building structure, mimicking forest ecology while providing insulation, air purification, and aesthetic benefits.
Forest floor ecosystem and animal camouflage patterns
Interface developed TacTiles modular carpet inspired by forest floor camouflage and animal pattern disruption. The non-directional design with organic, break-up patterns creates visual continuity regardless of installation direction.
Swift (Apodidae sp.) and dragonfly (Odonata order)
University of South Australia researchers developed drone designs based on swift and dragonfly flight mechanics. These aerial vehicles achieve superior agility, efficiency, and hovering capability by mimicking natural flight patterns.
A Cleaning Brush Inspired by Cats' Tongues Cats are vigorous self-groomers, and researchers at
Sensitive plants (Mimosa pudica), circulatory systems, solar-optimising leaf arrangements
A 20,000 m² self-heated, self-cooled, and self-ventilated commercial building in Switzerland whose footprint was generated through genetic algorithm optimisation mimicking nature's solar collection strategies, with adaptive facades inspired by sensitive plants and decentralised heat distribution like a circulatory system.
Saguaro cactus (Carnegiea gigantea)
Cactus spines collect water from morning fog by using a gradient of surface chemistry and microstructure from tip to base, directing water droplets toward the stem. Researchers are now incorporating this principle into building facade cladding panels that harvest atmospheric water in arid climates.
Dolphin echolocation system
Dolphin echolocation processing inspires S2C acoustic modems achieving accurate underwater communication where conventional sonars fail.
Termite mounds (Macrotermes)
A 38,000 m² art and media complex in Melbourne featuring the largest thermal labyrinth installed at the time of construction, inspired by termite mound ventilation to achieve passive cooling without mechanical air conditioning.
GoodMeat In a world where both animal and plant based products can contribute to climate change in some shape or form, cultured meat is a good alternative.
Biosphere and living ecosystems
A living, breathing office building concept by Chain10 Architecture that integrates biological systems and ecosystem functions into building design.
Various organisms and natural systems (framework)
Comprehensive building certification framework requiring buildings to function like living systems with positive environmental impact.
Mangrove trees (Rhizophora species)
Using mangrove root architecture to design living sea walls that provide coastal protection and habitat restoration.
Red mangrove (Rhizophora mangle)
Mangrove root systems stabilise trees in shifting tidal sediments by spreading loads across dozens of branching roots rather than concentrating force in a single trunk. Engineers are applying this branching foundation principle to offshore wind turbines to dramatically reduce steel use and installation cost.
Branching biological systems (Murray's Law)
This data centre eliminates energy-intensive cooling by locating in a mountain tunnel and using Murray's Law of biological branching to optimise duct networks for thermal distribution.
OptionV Energy: Turning industrial byproducts into useful chemicals Getting minerals for green energy batteries usually involves lots of heat and chemicals. OptionV Energy uses a process inspired by mushrooms to "claw" minerals out of industrial waste instead.
Durian fruit (Durio zibethinus) thorny casing
Singapore Arts Centre's kinetic facade mimics durian fruit's spiky protective envelope, synchronising with sun movement to control tropical heat while maintaining natural lighting and reducing energy use by 30%.
Snake (Serpentes, Scale Surface)
Snake scales create directional friction. Applied to footwear.
Soil ecosystem organisms and plant communities
Coal mine land restoration using soil ecosystem principles to rebuild biologically productive landscapes from degraded mining sites.
Deciduous forest ecosystem
This Indian village replicates six ecosystem services from local deciduous forest, with roofs that release monsoonal water as vapour, permeable pavements, tree-root-inspired foundations, and anthills-modelled rainfall management.
Vertebrate Limb Joints (Synovial Articulation)
Flexible joint articulation absorbs seismic energy.
Integrated biological systems
An ultra-low energy commercial office building in Seattle that mimics integrated natural systems for sustainability and resilience.
Bird eggs (various species)
A hen's egg can withstand 50 kg of compressive force despite its shell being less than 0.4mm thick — because the double-curved form distributes stress evenly across the entire surface. This principle, understood and applied by engineers like Félix Candela and Pier Luigi Nervi, produced the most material-efficient large-span structures ever built.
Human femur bone trabeculae
The Eiffel Tower's curved structure and hierarchical truss system mimic the efficient load-bearing design of human femur bone, with supporting elements aligned along lines of force like trabeculae.
Physarum polycephalum (slime mould)
A campus master plan for George Brown College in Toronto that uses slime mould algorithms to optimise transportation routes between multiple urban campus patches, revealing resilient redundancies in the network.
Human Immune System (T-cells, Sentinel Pattern)
Distributed sentinel nodes like immune T-cells.
Inflammation-Reducing Materials Inspired by Viruses We all know how discouraging it can be to fall ill. Viruses and bacteria can attack our bodies by avoiding detection from our immune systems (which is supposed to fight them off for us).
Nature-inspired design combined with dragon dancing tradition
A landscape and park design by Turenscape that integrates natural ecological principles with cultural traditions like dragon dancing for environmental restoration.
Oceanic Manta Ray
Oscillating fin propulsion for silent, efficient AUVs
Songololo millipede
Modular furniture design by Haldane Martin inspired by the songololo millipede's segmented body structure for adaptable, expandable furniture systems.
Sharks (various species with dermal denticles)
High-performance swimsuit featuring sharkskin-inspired surface texture to reduce drag and improve swimming speed.
Human DNA structure and skiing mechanics
This Taipei tower's DNA double-helix form provides panoramic views, privacy, and structural resilience while absorbing 130 tons of CO2 annually through integrated green systems.
Tidal stream dynamics and water flow
Hemp fiber processing inspired by natural tidal stream patterns for more efficient material separation and processing.
Nature's distributed systems and ecosystem organization
Ken Thompson developed Bioteams framework applying natural distributed organization principles to business. The framework redesigns teams and organizations to operate like decentralized biological systems.
Moth
Aspect Biosystems This innovative biotech company produces
Kelp Forest, Sea Grass (Flexible Swaying Motion)
Kelp and sea grass movement → wave energy converters.
Cellular Geometries inspired Metamaterials - Metavoxel When we look at cell structures, it’s easy to understand why small is beautiful.
Cold Retention Material Inspired by Camels Camels are extremely well adapted to regulate their own body temperatures and stay cool in hot climates.
Panther Chameleon
Structural colour from chameleon nanocrystal lattices
DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid)
DNA-based digital data storage technology developed by Cache DNA that uses the four DNA bases to encode binary information.
Nature's feedback systems and ecosystem regulation
Bioteams Design develops organizational structures using natural feedback loop principles. Teams self-regulate through information feedback, enabling adaptive response without micromanagement.
Various insects and human biomechanics
Development of robotic systems combining human movement capabilities with insect-inspired locomotion, strength, and coordination.
East African climate and environment adaptation
The bePRO helmet designed by Design Without Borders using biomimetic principles adapted to East African climate conditions for improved safety and comfort.
Muscle Atrophy Prevention Inspired by Hibernating Squirrels Squirrel image:
Specialized smell sensor technology Figuring out how insects smell led to an amazing discovery—a set of specially made smell receptors that can be used to create highly sensitive biosensors. These sensors can detect and measure thousands of different compounds, the human nose can not.
Sustainable synthetic mucus lubricant What do we use animal-derived mucus for? Gel Matter has developed a mucus product based on that secreted by snails (a massive market for this currently is the skincare industry) which could also be used for different purposes including lubrication, adhesion and
Venus flower basket sponge (Euplectella aspergillum)
30 St Mary Axe (the Gherkin) in London uses a ventilation strategy directly inspired by the Venus flower basket sponge, creating natural air spirals that reduce energy consumption by 50% compared to buildings of equivalent size.
Nature's bottom-up building processes
A 3D printed steel bridge developed by MX3D that uses nature's bottom-up construction principles to build complex structures additively.
Grass cell structures
A 3D printable foam ink developed by Harvard SEAS and Wyss Institute inspired by grass cell structures for lightweight, strong materials.
Battery components Lithium-sulfur batteries have high capacity but short lifespans, and they must withstand high temperatures during fast discharge.
Forest patch dynamics and ant communication networks
A 64-hectare carbon-positive community in rural Ontario designed by emulating forest patch dynamics and ant communication strategies to create resilient, pedestrian-focused clusters of prefabricated net-positive homes.
River delta and wetland ecosystems
This Vietnamese waterfront development integrates rather than eradicates natural wetlands and river delta systems, allowing development and ecosystem services to coexist through locally-attuned system design.
Bison grazing patterns and prairie wetland hydrology
A 600-hectare infrastructure master plan for an Indigenous Metis cultural centre in Alberta, Canada, using biomimetic strategies including bison-based regeneration and wetland restoration.
Ephemeral stream systems and forest finger ecology
A 200-hectare mixed-use master plan in Ontario that restores dried ephemeral streams and integrates forest fingers into the urban fabric, achieving measurably higher ecological performance than both pre-design conditions and traditional development.
Heterogeneous biological membranes and circulatory systems
A 121,000 m² airport and commercial complex in Singapore that uses heterogeneous glazing patterns and embedded chilled water pipe systems inspired by biological membranes and circulatory systems to strategically condition a vast indoor garden without massive energy consumption.
Prairie grassland ecosystems and earth-sheltered geology
A 109,000 ft² presidential library achieving Living Building Standard certification through earth-sheltered design, local grazing agriculture for carbon sinking, and energy generation exceeding 105% of building needs.
Swarm intelligence systems (ant colonies, bird flocks, fish schools)
Blockchain technology incorporates swarm intelligence principles enabling decentralized consensus and coordination. Distributed networks achieve agreement without central authority, mimicking how social insects organize.
Yellow boxfish (Ostracion cubicus)
Despite its square shape, the boxfish is one of the most hydrodynamically efficient swimmers in the ocean. Mercedes-Benz engineers discovered it has a drag coefficient of just 0.06 — and designed a concept car based entirely on its body plan that achieves unprecedented aerodynamic efficiency.
Island ecosystems and Ahupua'a land management
A biomimetic commercial building on Kaua'i that uses the Living Story methodology and indigenous Hawaiian knowledge to address socio-ecological and economic challenges on the island.
Pangolin (Manis sp.)
Overlapping keratinous scales provide armour-like protection with full flexibility.
Plant cell structures
A 3D printed chair by Lilian van Daal designed using plant cell structures for strength, comfort, and material efficiency.
Plant cell structures
A 3D printed soft seating design by Lilian Van Daal that mimics the cellular structure of plants for ergonomic comfort and material efficiency.
Earth and clay composition used by humans historically
Traditional adobe building materials and techniques providing thermal mass, breathability, and sustainability for climate-responsive architecture.
Animal and plant cells
The Shanghai Natural History Museum designed by Perkins + Will using cell structures (both animal and plant) as inspiration for architectural organization and design.
Mycelium networks (fungal hyphae)
Brewery and business clustering inspired by mycelium network structure for resource sharing and integrated waste-to-resource systems.
Beetle wings
Pavilion designs by the University of Stuttgart inspired by beetle wing structures for lightweight and structurally efficient architecture.
Branching: Optimal Distribution of Resources Branching is a common pattern in nature that maximizes efficiency in growth, transport, and resource distribution. Trees and plants use branching to spread leaves for optimal sunlight absorption.
Camouflage: Color matching, disruptive camouflage, mimesis Camouflage is a method of concealment that allows an organism or object to blend into its surroundings, making it less visible to predators, prey, or observers.
Dendritic Patterns: Growth & Flow Optimization Dendritic patterns resemble the roots of trees and are found in nature for efficient transport and distribution. Blood vessels and nerve cells use dendritic structures to optimize oxygen flow and signal transmission.
Fibonacci Sequence: Mathematical Growth & Proportion The Fibonacci Sequence, or Golden Ratio, is a mathematical pattern where each number is the sum of the two before it (1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8…). It appears in nature to optimize growth, efficiency, and structure.
Fractals: Maximize Distribution & Surface Area Fractals are self-repeating patterns found throughout nature. These structures maximize efficiency and adaptability. For example, trees and blood vessels use fractal branching to optimize nutrient and oxygen distribution.
Lattice Structures: Strength & Lightweight Design Lattice structures in nature provide strength, flexibility, and efficiency through repeating patterns of interconnected elements. Bird bones have lightweight lattice-like interiors for flight, balancing strength with reduced weight.
Optimized Flow: Fluid Flow & Energy Efficiency Fluid and aerodynamics in nature help organisms move efficiently through air and water. Birds and fish have streamlined bodies to reduce drag, allowing for faster, energy-efficient movement.
Spirals: Growth and Efficiency in Space Spirals are common in nature, appearing in shells, galaxies, hurricanes, and even DNA. These patterns optimize growth, strength, and energy efficiency.
Tessellations: Efficient Tiling Without Wasting Space Tessellation in nature involves repeating geometric patterns that fit together without gaps, optimizing strength, efficiency, and space usage. Honeycomb structures in beehives use hexagonal tessellation to store honey with minimal wax.
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Biomimicry Levels
Explore biomimicry at three levels of depth, from physical forms to underlying systems.
Lotus leaf (Nelumbo nucifera) surface structure
Lotus leaf surface microstructure inspires PFAS-free, durable water-repellent textiles (Amphitex), eliminating persistent environmental pollutants.
Morpho butterfly (Morpho rhetenor)
The Morpho butterfly's iridescent blue wings contain no blue pigment — the colour is created entirely by microscopic structures that interfere with light. This inspired a range of structural colour technologies that could eliminate toxic textile dyes entirely.
Burdock plant (Arctium sp.)
The invention of Velcro — one of the most commercially successful products in history — came directly from Swiss engineer George de Mestral observing how burdock burrs clung to his dog's fur through thousands of tiny hooks that caught on microscopic loops in the fur.
Spiders (various species producing different silk types)
Development of high-performance synthetic spider silk proteins for next-generation materials with exceptional strength and flexibility.
Sacred lotus (Nelumbo nucifera)
The lotus leaf is covered in microscopic waxy bumps that make water form perfect spheres and roll off instantly, carrying dirt with them. This "lotus effect" has been commercialised in self-cleaning building materials, textiles, medical devices, and solar panels worldwide.
Lily (Zantedeschia aethiopica)
The PAX Water Mixer mimics the golden ratio spiral flow of a calla lily to circulate 10 million gallons of water with the energy footprint of just three 100-watt light bulbs.
Plant volatile signaling systems
Plant volatile emission patterns inspire bio-based food preservation sachets that extend shelf life without synthetic chemicals.
Spiders (various species producing different silk types)
Development of high-performance synthetic spider silk proteins for next-generation materials with exceptional strength and flexibility.
Mycelium (fungal networks, various species)
Biohm developed mycelium-based building materials that are affordable, non-toxic, fire-resistant, and fully biodegradable. These materials function as insulation, structural panels, and acoustic treatments in sustainable building design.
Mycelium (fungal networks, various Basidiomycete species)
Ecovative Design engineered mycelium-based packaging materials that are completely compostable and biodegradable. Mycelium (fungal root networks) grows as a natural binder, creating foam-like structures that replace plastic packaging.
Fungi and fungal networks
Novobiom harnesses fungal and mycelium networks to remediate contaminated industrial sites. Fungi naturally break down pollutants and absorb heavy metals, restoring soil health without excavation or chemical treatment.
Waterbirds (uropygial gland preen oil)
Cellulotech's chromatogeny process mimics waterbird preen oil by grafting nanoscale fatty acid molecules onto cellulose fibres, making paper and cardboard superhydrophobic while preserving full recyclability and biodegradability.
Fungi and fungal networks
Novobiom harnesses fungal and mycelium networks to remediate contaminated industrial sites. Fungi naturally break down pollutants and absorb heavy metals, restoring soil health without excavation or chemical treatment.
Fungal mycelium (Ganoderma and other species)
Ecovative Design grows packaging, leather, and foam from fungal mycelium fed on agricultural waste, replacing petroleum-based polystyrene and plastics with materials that are home-compostable in 30–45 days and produce 90 % fewer greenhouse gas emissions.
Fungi Inspired On-site Waste Remediation - Mycocycle Mycocycle works with nature’s master decomposers, fungi, to break down complex waste streams such as construction materials and asphalt.
Ecosystems and natural circular systems
The Ellen MacArthur Foundation develops circular economy frameworks based on ecosystem principles. Circular economies eliminate waste by designing products and systems to cycle continuously through biological or technical loops.
Prairie Ecosystem (North American Tallgrass Prairie)
Polyculture perennial grains mimic prairie biodiversity.
Cyanobacteria / Blue-Green Algae
Harmful algal bloom biomass replaces petroleum-based EVA foam
How it happened
Burdock plant (Arctium sp.)
Common kingfisher (Alcedo atthis)
Shortfin mako shark (Isurus oxyrinchus)
Sacred lotus (Nelumbo nucifera)
Morpho butterfly (Morpho rhetenor)
Golden silk orb-weaver spider (Nephila clavipes)
African termite (Macrotermes michaelseni)
Humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae)
Tokay gecko (Gekko gecko)
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Today's Featured Example
Arion subfuscus slug mucus inspires tough, flexible surgical glue adhering to wet tissue surfaces.
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For R&D and product teams
The Biomimicry Opportunity Map scans your company website and suggests nature-inspired challenges for each product line.