Biomimicry is by no means a new design method in the world of STEM, consider Leonardo da Vinci’s early flying machine designs taking inspiration from birds. Today’s engineers are really taking things to the next level. Termite nests with their perfectly regulated temperature have led to the construction of high rise buildings in Zimbabwe that stay cool without air-conditioning, using instead a strategic air-exchange. E book reading screens utilize a technology based on the construction of iridescent butterfly wings. Now researchers are using the incredible camouflaging qualities of the octopus and other cephalopods to create robots that will be able to employ 3D camouflage tactics!

Cephalopods differ from other camouflaging animals in that they don’t just change color, they can also change texture! Who knew octopi would have such cool secret agent skills? Interesting fact, they’ve also got a super fast turn of speed when they’re hunting. Turns out they are the ninjas of the oceanic world! The 3D chameleon skills come in handy when you’re trying to hide from a big hungry predator with sharp teeth, and you can make your skin blend in with rocky reefs around you.  Scientists are now working on copying the versatile skin structure and making a silicone synthetic which could be used as the outer covering of a soft robot.  Find out more here.